Exploring gas hydrates in the Arctic: prospects and opportunities through electromagnetic methods

Gas hydrates represent a significant yet underdeveloped source of hydrocarbons in Arctic and deep-sea regions. Their industrial exploration is limited by the lack of mature technologies and refined exploration criteria. This study assesses the prospects of using a comprehensive approach, integrating shallow electromagnetic sounding, drilling, and well-log data, to study gas hydrate deposits within Arctic permafrost. The method successfully mapped the permafrost thickness based on a sharp resistivity contrast from 500–600 to 5–20 Ω·m. The analysis revealed two key diagnostic signs of gas hydrate accumulations. Zones of locally increased icy permafrost thickness (metastability zone), which could trap gas hydrates migrating from below. Intervals within the Tibesian suite (stability zone) with elevated resistivity (∼30 Ω·m) against a conductive background of frozen rocks. The study outlines further pathways for developing geophysical research aimed at mapping gas hydrates in the Arctic.