Effective Monitoring of Green House Gas Emission - A Laboratory Approach

Abstract

Abstract The continuous emission of Green House Gases (GHGs) constitutes a threat to both human life and the ecosystem. Carbon dioxide (CO2), Methane (C1), Nitrous oxide (NO2), Hydro-fluorocarbons (HFCs), Per-fluorocarbons (PFCs), and Sulphur hexafluoride (SF6) are usually classified as Green House Gases. The release of these gas molecules into the atmosphere tends to deplete the ozone layer which ordinarily serves as a protective shield from harmful ultra violet rays. The consequent effect of this is global warming, besides the danger of exposure to harmful ultra-violet rays. Though the release of GHGs can occur during combustion of sundry wastes, fossil fuels, agricultural materials, the activities of the oil and gas industry is the major culprit. To successfully monitor the release of these gases from facilities and specific operations, reliable independent laboratory experimental data is highly needed to assess trends, measure the efficiency of mitigation strategies and initiatives. Accurate measurements of all GHGs emissions are critical for establishing emission baseline and improved accountability. In this work, flare gas samples were collected from five different flow stations in the Niger Delta region. Gas chromatographic technique was used to determine the bulk molecular composition of the flare gas, using ASTM D1945. Analytical results indicate flow stations A & B flared more GHGs components, C & D flared less while E had inconsistent trend in amount of GHGs flared. All results were quantified and calculated at 95% confidence level. The outcome of this work will aid both the operators of production facilities and regulatory bodies in tracking and controlling the emission of GHGs.