Microscale Adhesive Force Between Methane Hydrate Particles and Sediment Mineral Surfaces

The adhesion of hydrates to marine sediments plays a critical role in affecting extraction efficiency and wellbore safety during gas hydrate production. This study investigates the micro-mechanical properties of hydrates on different mineral surfaces by using a high-pressure micro-mechanical force device (HP-MMF) to quantify hydrate-mineral adhesion forces, and systematically examines the effect of contact duration. Adhesion tests were performed using laboratory-synthesized methane hydrate particles and three representative minerals of marine sediments (silica, mica, and illite) under both brine-saturated and pure-water-saturated conditions. The analysis reveals how adhesion force varies with mineral type and contact duration. The results provide experimental evidence and quantitative insight into the interaction mechanisms between methane hydrates and sediment minerals, offering a valuable reference for predicting and controlling sediment migration behavior and flow conditions during hydrate extraction.