Transforming Methane In Energy

The combustion process of methane

To obtain energy, the indispensable components of this process are purified methane, which I described in the third blog, and oxygen. The challenge imposed by this final part is the procurement of oxygen. Titan's atmosphere has oxygen in negligible amounts, so the only way to get it is through electrolysis. Thus, the water obtained through the drill will be used. By using electrolysis, the molecules of H and O₂ are separated by the use of electricity. Then, the system will be equipped with anodes, which will capture oxygen and cathodes that will capture hydrogen. Once the oxygen is separated, it will be deposited in the cryo

genic tank. When oxygen and methane are ready, they will be gradually introduced into a common tank under high pressure. Once compounds are introduced into the common tank, a heat source or spark generates ignition, generating an exothermic reaction that generates energy

and heat

CH₄+2O₂→CO₂+2H₂O+Energy

                The exothermic reaction causes the gases to expand, creating a high pressure, which can be beneficial in many ways. The optimal option to protect this pressure is to use a turbine, which will be rotated by the gases in the tank. This rapid and constant spin can generate electricity, like that from wind-powered wind turbines. The resulting compounds, carbon dioxide and water vapor respectively can also be used. The best way to lubricate the resulting carbon dioxide is to obtain oxygen through electrolysis, thus being able to reuse. Water vapor can be condensed back into the liquid and can be used in a multitude of ways.

This process provides energy that can be used in a wide range of fields, such as:

·         Power generation for the main settlement and secondary base on Titan. This method can be used as the main method or as a secondary method of providing energy,

·         Use of methane-fueled rockets. The main method of human, robotic and resource transport will be carried out with the help of missiles. By using methane as fuel,

We can save nuclear energy for other activities within the bases.

·         The industrial installation on the secondary base of titanium. The heat generated by the extoronic reaction and can generate the heat needed to melt metals within the metallurgical industry.

Note: once the purification and filtration prcces is over, the methane will remain in liquid form. However, for the combustion reaction, it needs to be evaporated. Insead of evaporating all of it after making sure that it has no impuiries, we have made the decision to kep some in liquid form because it's much easier to store, occupying about 600 times less space. Thus, when it's needed, it will be evaporated first at a temperature of around −162 °C (−259.6 °F). meeting the temperature needed for it's evaporation.