Numerical Simulation of Coastal Sub-Permafrost Gas Hydrate Formation in the Mackenzie Delta, Canadian Arctic

The Mackenzie Delta (MD) is a permafrost-bearing region along the coasts of Canadian Arctic which exhibits high sub-permafrost gas hydrate (GH) reserves. GH occurring at Mallik site in MD dominated by thermogenic methane (CH4), migrated from deep conventional hydrocarbon reservoirs, very likely through present fault systems. Therefore, it assumed that fluid flow transports dissolved CH4 upward and out deeper overpressurized reservoirs via existing polygonal system then forms accumulations Kugmallit–Mackenzie Bay Sequences. We investigate feasibility this mechanism with thermo–hydraulic–chemical numerical model, representing cross section site. first simulations consider permafrost formation thawing, as well sourced migrating CH4-rich fluid. simulation results show temperature distribution, thickness base ice-bearing are consistent corresponding field observations. primary driver for spatial distribution permeability host sediments. Thus, hypothesis on originating geological successfully validated. Furthermore, our demonstrate has been substantially heated to 0.8–1.3 °C, triggered global increase about 0.44 °C further enhanced Amplification effect early 1970s mid-2000s.