Hydrocarbon extraction

Source- This post on Hydrocarbon extraction is based on the article “How does hydrocarbon extraction happen?” published in “The Hindu” on 15th April 2024.

Why in the News?

Hydrocarbons have been the foundational elements of crucial energy resources around the globe.

What is hydrocarbon and where are they located?

1. A hydrocarbon is an organic compound made solely of carbon and hydrogen atoms.

2. These naturally occurring substances are the foundational elements of crucial energy resources such as crude oil, natural gas, coal, and others.

3. Hydrocarbons are primarily located in subterranean rock formations. Hydrocarbons are also found in plants, animals, and their fossils. 

4. They exist in various forms such as natural gas, coal, crude oil, and petroleum.

5. These hydrocarbons accumulate in reservoirs underground when a more resistant rock type overlays a less resistant one, creating a lid that causes hydrocarbons to accumulate below it.

6. The primary source of hydrocarbons in this rocky underground is called kerogen, which are lumps of organic matter.

Note: The type of kerogen determines the type of hydrocarbon that is produced.

How are hydrocarbons extracted?

1. Location Determination: Petroleum geologists evaluate rock porosity and permeability to locate hydrocarbon reservoirs.

They identify source rocks rich in kerogen, the main hydrocarbon source, and use data-driven modeling and exploratory drilling to estimate hydrocarbon volumes.

2. Drilling: Drilling and reservoir engineers aim to maximize extraction without harming the reservoir. They drill a production well, the main channel through which hydrocarbons are brought to the surface.

3. Preparation: The plant material is prepared by grinding or breaking it down into smaller pieces for increased surface area.

4. Extraction: The prepared material is placed in the extraction vessel, and the hydrocarbon solvent is passed over it to dissolve the desired compounds.

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