A project to research combustible ice from the South China Sea as a form of alternative energy has been authorized by China's National Basic Research Program, or 973 Program, the Nanfang Daily reported.

Combustible ice, one type of natural gas hydrate, is a recognized form of alternative energy. The pure hydrate, formed under conditions of high pressure and low temperature, has a white color and can be ignited directly. One cubic meter of the hydrate is equivalent to 164 cubic meters of natural gas.

In 2007, China became the fourth country to successfully excavate combustible ice from the sea bed, after the United States, Japan and India.

The research is being carried out on the floor of the northern South China Sea. This is the first time that 973 Program has provided support to the research, which will fully commence in January 2009.

(CRI September 17, 2008)