Optimizing Hydrate Extraction Efficiency through Microwave Heating: a Comprehensive Study

Enhancing gas hydrate exploitation viability requires balancing energy efficiency and gas productivity. This study integrates genetic algorithms and Pareto optimization to optimize microwave parameters (10–30 W; 1000–2400 s) for hydrate decomposition. A validated model (<5% error) shows that higher power (25 W) boosts gas yield by 41.5% but cuts efficiency by 52.8%, while prolonged heating (1500 s) increases gas yield by 36% with 33% efficiency loss. Genetic algorithms identify 10 W/1300 s as the optimal configuration, improving extraction efficiency by 44–77% versus conventional methods. Pareto analysis further selects 25 W/1300 s as a balanced solution, achieving 2.08 S cm3/s gas production with a 4.9 energy efficiency. These findings establish a framework for single-cycle microwave strategies that harmonize rapid hydrate decomposition with sustainable energy use, advancing scalable and economically feasible exploitation of hydrate resources.