Review on in situ conversion of oil shale

In situ conversion technology for oil shale is an innovative method of energy extraction that involves the underground heating of oil shale reservoirs to thermally crack kerogen into oil and gas. This approach avoids the environmental damage and high energy consumption associated with traditional mining methods and offers advantages such as reduced environmental impact, small ecological footprint, and low development costs. In this paper, a variety of in situ conversion technologies, including in situ conversion process (ICP), Electrofrac, geothermic fuels cells process (GFC), and supercritical water heating, are discussed in detail. The paper also analyzes the current state and development trends of in situ conversion technologies in China, and highlights the importance of advancing basic theoretical research and overcoming key technologies to enable large-scale utilization of oil shale resources. Continued research and improvement in in situ conversion technologies will enhance both the efficiency and sustainability of the energy industry.