A naturally occurring gas, primarily composed of methane, is found adsorbed within coal seams. This gas is trapped within the coal’s matrix due to pressure and is released when the pressure decreases. An example of its extraction involves drilling into the coal seam and pumping water out; this reduces the pressure, allowing the gas to desorb and flow to the surface.
This resource offers several advantages. It can augment natural gas supplies, contributing to energy security. Furthermore, its extraction can enhance the safety of coal mining operations by reducing the risk of explosions caused by accumulated gas. Historically, the efficient capture and utilization of this gas have been seen as a way to convert a potential hazard into a valuable energy source.
