Perspectives on Molecular Mechanisms of Hydrate Formation and Growth at Interfaces: A Mini-Review

Abstract

Hydrate-based engineering applications hold significant promise due to their physical feasibility and low energy consumption. However, key challenges─including operating conditions, formation and growth rates, and gas storage capacity─continue to impact their viability as sustainable technologies. This mini-review offers key insights into molecular mechanisms governing hydrate nucleation and growth at guest-water interfaces, specifically examining the role of mass transfer thermodynamics across the interface in either promoting or inhibiting gas hydrate formation. Additionally, this review highlights recent advancements, emerging research opportunities, and potential commercialization pathways for these technologies. With continued development, technologies utilizing hydrates have the capability to play a transformative role across multiple industries, offering a more sustainable alternative to existing commercial solutions.