New Patent Could Nearly Eliminate Natural Gas Emissions

Backed by a simulation, the inventor reported his filter could reduce emissions by 99 percent.

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A new invention could reduce almost all emissions from natural gas compressors. The invention, essentially an engine exhaust filter, could reduce emissions by 99 percent says inventor Allen McCulloch. Emissions from natural gas and petroleum production account for 29 percent of methane emissions in the U.S., according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The invention could help keep emissions in line with upcoming EPA regulations as the agency seeks to further limit methane, carbon dioxide, and other greenhouse gases. In a 72-hour natural gas pump simulation, McCulloch said his invention was successful, as reported by the Daily Times. A real-world test was not possible, he said, because he couldn’t put exhaust into the production pipeline, which his invention does.

The inventor reported he is now in talks with ConocoPhillips.

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Colin wrote for Government Technology and Emergency Management from 2010 through most of 2016.