Nonstationary Absorption of Methane by a Quiescent Aqueous Phase

Nonequilibrium dissolution of methane in unstirred water was investigated. The experiments were carried out in the ranges of temperatures, pressures, and concentrations corresponding to the existence of methane hydrate in an equilibrium state. The experimental data were satisfactorily described by a model taking into account the methane transfer both through the gas–liquid interface layer and in the liquid phase. Calculations using the model and the experimental data showed that the methane diffusivity in water is lower than in the interface layer. This can be associated with the formation of methane hydrate in the aqueous phase, since methane hydrate molecules are larger than methane molecules.