Natural gas is a highly desirable fuel in many respects. It burns with the release of a large amount of energy, producing almost entirely carbon dioxide and water as waste products. Except for possible greenhouse effects of carbon dioxide, these compounds produce virtually no environmental hazard. Transporting natural gas through transcontinental pipelines is inexpensive and efficient where topography allows the laying of pipes. Oceanic shipping is difficult, however, because of the flammability of the gas and the high volumes involved. The most common way of dealing with these problems is to condense the gas first and then transport it in the form of liquified natural gas (LNG). But LNG must be maintained at temperatures of about -260°F (-160°C) and protected from leaks and flames during loading and unloading.

See Also

Fossil Fuels