Deuterium as a quantitative tracer of enhanced microbial methane production

摘要: Abstract Microbial production of natural gas in subsurface organic-rich reservoirs (e.g., coal, shale, oil) can be enhanced by the introduction amendments algal extracts from biofuel production) to stimulate microbial communities generate “new” methane resources on human timescales, potentially providing a lower carbon energy source. This study tests deuterated water as tracer quantify amount generated and effectiveness Enhancement Coalbed Methane (MECoM) approaches, methanogens incorporate hydrogen formation waters into during methanogenesis. Microorganisms (including methanogens), water, coal obtained Powder River Basin were used establish batch reactor stimulation experiments, using extracts, which incremental amounts added. The greatest was produced amended coal-associated experiments there consistent uptake D methane. shorter duration (36 days) experiment had slope (m = 0.31) δD-CH4 vs. δD-H2O similar offset between (371.2‰) compared longer (m = 0.44; 114 days; 358.8‰ offset) experiment, both with primarily acetoclastic success our proof-of-concept laboratory confirms that quantitative stimulated methanogenic activity. We also provide an example how it applied field-scale MECoM projects. In addition, may serve useful for other or activities, such oil recovery bioremediation organic contaminants.