Coalbed methane extraction

Coalbed methane extraction (CBM extraction) is a method for extracting methane from a coal deposit. Coalbed methane extraction (CBM extraction) is a method for extracting methane from a coal deposit. Methane adsorbed into a solid coal matrix (coal macerals) will be released if the coal seam is depressurised. Methane may be extracted by drilling wells into the coal seam. The goal is to decrease the water pressure by pumping water from the well. The decrease in pressure allows methane to desorb from the coal and flow as a gas up the well to the surface. Methane is then compressed and piped to market.