Complex hydrates in the Sea of Marmara: Formation mechanisms, kinetic and thermodynamic property study from Experiments and Modelling

summary :
Marine hydrate deposits represent one of the largest methane reservoirs on Earth. They are very sensitive to changes in chemical flux, as well as the temperature and pressure of the seafloor. Recent studies carried out in the Sea of Marmara (SoM), along the submerged part of the North Anatolian Fault (NFA), show that one of the segments crosses a hydrate deposit sourced by thermogenic gas-charged bodies located in the seismogenic zone. These hydrates are peculiar because they contain a large number of molecules other than methane (non-methane molecules such as heavier hydrocarbons and carbon dioxide) accounting for
between 12-17%-mol. As a result, their formation mechanism is a complex phenomenon that considerably changes (1) the chemical composition and thermodynamic properties of the source gases, and (2) the mechanical properties of the sediment near the fault segment. To date, detailed studies on the formation process and the
stability field of such complex hydrates are lacking, especially the formation mechanisms and the kinetics.
This PhD fellowship proposes to study the physicochemical properties of the Marmara hydrate deposit, by applying an integrated approach combining laboratory experiments and modelling. The results will allow a better understanding of their formation mechanisms, their stability field, their gas storage capacity and the heat required to destabilize them.

Key-words:
Complex gas hydrates, formation mechanisms, high-pressure experiments, kinetics, modelling, stability field, thermodynamics

Collaboration and preferred profile of the PhD student:
This PhD project is a collaboration between Ifremer, the University of Nova Lisboa (Portugal) and the University of
Vigo (Spain). The recruited candidate will carry out an internship in each of these two universities.
Applicants should have a M. Sc. degree in chemistry, chemical engineering or geochemistry and, preferably a good
knowledge in the area of gas hydrates, geosciences or chemical processes. We are seeking a student interested in
both experimental studies and modelling, and who is willing to carry out high-pressure experiments followed by
modelling optimization. The successful candidate should have the ability to explain in English his / her work on
paper and in face-to-face meetings.
How to apply for this position ?
Your application file must include :
 a curriculum vitae
 a covering letter a reference letter
 an academic transcript (Bachelor + Master 1 and first semester Master 2)
Your application must be compiled into 2 PDF files, up to 1.5 MB for each file:
In case of any problem in attaching your documents, please upload your CV on this page (this step is mandatory
for your application to be considered) and send all the documents to the thesis supervisors :
livio.ruffine@ifremer.fr and olivia.fandino.torres@ifremer.fr
The deadline for applications is May 2rd, 2021. Nevertheless, we strongly urge you to let us know as soon as
possible of your intention to apply, by contacting the supervisors.
Doctoral students’ contract will start October 1st, 2021, subject to the submission of administrative documents
authorizing Ifremer to recruit the doctoral student (certificate of completion of the Master 2 or engineering degree
+ visa for foreign doctoral students outside the EU).
Our job offers on our website: https://ifremer-en.jobs.net/en-GB/job/phd-complex-hydrates-in-the-sea-ofmarmara-formation-mechanisms-kinetic-and-ther/J3N3BF6897HDPGYGGX