Dry water methane gas hydrate technology development

Dry water is a form of powdered liquid with a high surface area. It has a unique ability to speed up reaction times between aqueous liquids and gases without the need for stirring. As such it has tremendous potential as a storage medium for gases, in the form of normally slow-forming gas hydrates.

This KTA project was designed to explore the technical application and commercial viability of the technology, especially in relation to methane and natural gas transport.

What scientific or technical barriers did you have to overcome?

The key question was whether our Dry Water hydrate-based system could compete economically with existing technologies and with other, comparable systems under development. We aimed to answer this by engaging with industry and through further experimental studies.

Who took part in the project?

The scientific work was undertaken by the Cooper Group within the University of Liverpool Chemistry Department. Specialists from the University's Business Gateway organisation provided support for the intellectual property, knowledge transfer and commercialisation aspects, in association with NRJ Consulting Ltd.

How far has the project progressed?

The KTA project lasted for 12 months and was completed in March 2011.

What concrete outcomes are there so far?

Our scientific work has created a better understanding of the technology, especially in relation to its recyclable properties. We published 4 papers which, together with conference presentations, widespread media coverage and direct approaches, have increased industry awareness.

Healthcare labs for example will be able to provide a faster, more accurate analytical service which will benefit doctors and patients. In fact many analytical services will be able to improve its offer to customers.

We also see new applications for the material, outside of chromatography. Within the chemicals industry for instance it could provide a useful medium for creating, developing and manufacturing new chemicals.

As a result a considerable number of companies have expressed an interest in Dry Water applications. Conversations with them are ongoing, with a view to funding further development and conducting trials.

Our Dry Water technology was featured at the Cheltenham Science Festival 2011 as an example of high-impact academic research.

What could be the future developments / benefits?

The KTA project highlighted previously unforeseen biological applications for the powder. This resulted in a further study during the summer of 2011 with the University's Life Sciences Department and biotech consultancy 2Bio.

Results from the project are likely to highlight additional commercial, technical and funding opportunities.