Catalytic transformations of fluids

Abstract

Fluids play a very important role in processes of the chemical and physical evolution of crustal and mantle rocks. The influence of certain rocks on chemical reactions between fluid components is studied. Experimental results of the catalytic activity of serpentinite, ophitic gabbro, and lizardite–antigorite asbestos relative to vapor conversion of methane (CH₄) have been obtained with the formation of syngas at atmospheric pressure and temperatures up to 850°C. Such transformations are assumed to be able to take place under natural conditions in fluid systems that accompany massifs of seabed ultrabasic rocks, as well as kimberlite pipes. Proceeding from the studies performed, options of the practical use of various crustal rocks as catalysts of fluid transformations have been proposed. The experimental results confirm the initial theses of the authors’ concept with respect to the role of heterogeneous–catalytic mechanisms of transformations of fluids in the Earth’s crust.