Gas and isotope geochemistry

In view of the increasing world-wide demand for energy, research on and exploration of energy resources is of growing importance. For the gas and isotope geochemistry section at the Federal Institute for Geosciences and Natural Resources, the fossil energy source, natural gas, is at the centre of research and development work. Work is carried out both on conventional natural gas reservoirs as well as on unconventional resources such as gas hydrates, coal-bed methane and natural gas from aquifers (dissolved gas in groundwater), which could possibly contribute to energy supply in the future. In this work an important instrument is the evaluation of the hydrocarbon potential of sedimentary basins. Also, new gas-geochemical methods are being developed for seeking gas resources.

Gas and isotope geochemical procedures are not only important for research on possible future energy sources, but also for monitoring and assessing geological risks. Amongst other things, the methods are applied by the Federal Institute for Geosciences and Natural Resources in measuring stations world-wide to improve the prediction of volcanic eruptions or earthquakes. Another application is the monitoring of the underground storage of natural gas and carbon dioxide. Gas and isotope geochemical methods are used within research projects.

In the context of these activities the experts of the Federal Institute for Geosciences and Natural Resources advise the Federal Ministries, the European Union and the German industry on questions about energy resources and on monitoring of geological risks.