Lake Kivu Degasification Reservoir Engineering Study

Lake Kivu is a unique lake with a significant amount of methane and CO2 dissolved in its deep layer. The presence of these greenhouse gases poses a potential danger of massive disaster. The extraction of methane is viewed as a possible and profitable solution as the reduction of methane will enhance the ability of the lake water to absorb more incoming CO2, consequently reducing the risk of uncontrolled gas eruption. The safe extraction of methane requires comprehensive study about the transport processes involved with the production of methane and reinjection of degassed water into the lake. We propose an extensive analysis of the extraction, separation, and economic evaluation of lake methane. We also plan to assess the stability of the water body by conducting a numerical experiment that will account for net withdrawal of gases, reinjection of produced water and subaquatic water influx.

Faculty Supervisor:

Hassan Hassanzadeh

Student:

Partner:

Alfajiri Energy Corporation

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

University of Calgary

Program: