Storing liquefied gas in subterranean cavity - incorporating cooling according to programme predetermined from rock characteristics, and observations during cooling, avoiding fissures

摘要

A method of storing liquified gas at low temp. in a subterranean cavity which is maintained fluid-tight by the freezing of the ground, is claimed. Process comprises observing the walls of the cavity and the surrounding mass over the period of cooling and taking action to alter the initial programme of cooling and to repair damage which appears. The period of cooling extends from the moment when the walls are made water-tight by the freezing of the water and the moment the cooling ends. Problems associated with fissures which exist in the ground before the cavity is made or which appear at the beginning of or during storage are avoided. Such fissures bring water flow which can be difficult to stop, or escapes of gas.