WHAT ARE THE SHALLOW GAS AND SHALLOW GAS FLOW?

I. The Related concepts

– Shallow gas is defined as any hydrocarbon-bearing zone that may be encountered at a depth close to the surface or midline. Generally, it is not possible to close in and contain a gas influx from a shallow zone because weak formation integrity may lead to breakdown and broaching to the surface/midline;

– Shallow gas flow is a fascinating phenomenon that has the potential to revolutionize oil and gas production. It occurs when high-pressure fluids are released from subsurface reservoirs, leading to dynamic changes in the environment both on land and offshore.

II. Shallow gas and its significance to sustainable development

• Shallow gas can be used for heating and cooling applications, reducing energy costs;
• Shallow gas can be used to provide hot water for domestic use;
• Shallow gas is a clean and efficient source of energy, reducing carbon emissions and air pollution;
• Shallow gas can be used to power industrial processes such as manufacturing;
• Shallow gas can be used to generate electricity, providing an alternative to traditional sources of power.

=> Shallow gas is a renewable energy source, making it a sustainable choice for the future.

=> Shallow gas is considered one of the most serious geological hazards in deepwater drilling because it has the characteristics of suddenness and is difficult to deal with. 

• Shallow gas in drilling is dangerous because it can cause an uncontrolled release of gas, known as a blowout. Blowouts can cause fires, explosions, and environmental damage. In addition, shallow gas can lead to well control problems, where the pressure from the gas forces drilling mud and other materials up the wellbore and out of the well. This can cause surface damage and potential contamination of nearby water sources.

1. WC Goins, Jr.; GL Abies. The Causes of Shallow Gas Kicks. 1987. The SPE/IADC Drilling Conference, New Orleans, Louisiana, March 1987. https://doi.org/10.2118/16128-MS.
2. N. J. Adams; L. G. Kuhlman. Case History Analyses of Shallow Gas Blowouts. 1987. The SPE/IADC Drilling Conference, New Orleans, Louisiana, March 1987. https://doi.org/10.2118/19917-MS.
3. The authors. Simulation of Shallow Gas Invasion Process During Deepwater Drilling and Its Control Measures. 2022. Journal of Ocean University of China. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11802-022-4855-z