Molecular Simulation of Hydrate-Bearing Sediments: Comprehensive Review with Focus on Molecular Force Field

This review provides a comprehensive assessment of recent advancements in molecular simulation methodologies for hydrate-bearing sediments with a focus on innovations in molecular force field development and practical implementations. This review critically assesses how concurrent advancements in single-phase force fields, multiphase interfacial parametrization, and machine learning techniques synergistically improve the accuracy and predictive capability of molecular simulations for hydrate systems under varying geological conditions. Current molecular force fields face significant challenges when applied to hydrate-bearing sediments. These challenges include inaccurate phase transition predictions under extreme conditions. Parameter incompatibility between different phases causes errors in interfacial energy calculations. Computational efficiency and accuracy present fundamental trade-offs that limit large-scale applications. Experimental validation data for microscopic processes remain insufficient. Future research priorities encompass three strategic areas. Development of extreme condition-adaptable force fields will integrate quantum mechanical calculations with experimental data to optimize parameters for high-pressure, low-temperature environments. Machine learning techniques will enable multiphysics-coupled models that balance computational accuracy and efficiency for large-scale multiphase simulations. Collaborative experimental-simulation frameworks will establish high-resolution validation benchmarks across molecular to reservoir scales. These integrated approaches bridge nanoscale molecular phenomena with macroscale engineering applications, enabling effective natural gas hydrate exploitation and utilization.