About the Cover

Hydrates are crystalline compounds formed when water molecules encapsulate gas molecules under specific pressure and temperature conditions, creating ice-like structures. In the context of Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS), understanding the rheology of these hydrates is essential for predicting and managing their behavior in pipelines and storage facilities. These images depict the formation of synthetic hydrates using cyclopentane and water at 4°C, observed in the Double Wall Ring (DWR) geometry of a rotational rheometer. Due to the directional nature of crystal growth, hydrates formed under these controlled conditions resemble miniature trees, showcasing the intricate and delicate structures that emerge. Nucleation begins at the interface, emphasizing the importance of measuring interfacial rheology in these systems. The micrographs, captured with a scanning electron microscope (SEM) using a cryogenic system, provide a detailed view of these formations, offering valuable insights into hydrate growth mechanisms. These observations are particularly relevant for flow assurance strategies in industrial applications, helping to mitigate risks associated with hydrate formation in CCS and energy transport systems.