Hydrates are the crystalline cage-like hydrogen bonded solid lattice of water containing trapped molecules of hydrocarbon gas. Hydrates are important in the oil and natural gas industries because many processes involve treating streams where water and hydrocarbons are in contact. If the conditions of temperature and pressure are right, a stable hydrate phase may form. These hydrates can block pipe and other process equipment, reducing operational life, cutting revenue and represent a serious safety hazard.
