Summary of Suresh Bansal: “Biogenic and abiotic hydrocarbons“ | Tom Nelson Pod #237

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00:00:00 - 01:00:00

In the Tom Nelson Podcast episode featuring Suresh Bansal, the topic of biogenic versus abiotic hydrocarbons is discussed. Bansal, who has spent over 40 years researching this subject, shares his belief that both theories, Fossil Fuel and Abiotic Oil , have valid points but have overlooked scientific evidence from the opposing side. He proposes that the same oil deposit can contain a mixture of both types of hydrocarbons. Bansal also explains that complex hydrocarbons are not always biogenic and that abiotic hydrocarbons were likely formed through a series of asteroid strikes and atmospheric reactions. He emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the scientific evidence from both sides and encourages ongoing dialogue between scientists in the field.

00:00:00 In this section of the Tom Nelson Podcast, Suresh Bansal discusses his research on biogenic versus abiotic hydrocarbons. Bansal, who has spent over 40 years investigating this topic, shares some of his conclusions. He believes that both the Fossil Fuel Theory and the Abiotic Oil Theory are partly correct, but both sides have been ignoring the scientific evidence of the opposite side for the same oil deposits. The same oil deposit can contain a mixture of biogenic hydrocarbons and a larger percentage of abiotic hydrocarbons. Complex hydrocarbons are not always biogenic, and before there was any life on Earth, a series of asteroid strikes created abiotic hydrocarbons. In conjunction with asteroid strikes, a gigafactory involving chemical reactions in the Earth's atmosphere transformed simple hydrocarbons into complex hydrocarbons, which then rain down to the surface of the Earth. A key compound in this process may be tholen, a complex organic compound formed through the irradiation of simple organic molecules like methane and nitrogen. Bansal, a businessman from India, has observed the ongoing debate between the two theories for decades and believes that the truth lies in understanding the scientific evidence of both sides.
00:05:00 In this section of the YouTube video titled "Suresh Bansal: “Biogenic and abiotic hydrocarbons” | Tom Nelson Pod #237", Suresh Bansal discusses the misconception that biomass is the sole source of hydrocarbons. He explains that while the scientific portion of the theory, from Source Rock to reservoir oil, is accepted, the assumption that biomass is the real Source is not. This assumption has arisen due to the presence of biomarkers and isotope data indicating low temperature and pressure conditions, leading people to assume biomass is the Source. However, this is not the truth as organic hydrocarbons are not necessarily biogenic. The confusion arises from the assumption that organic means it comes from biomass or living organisms, but this is not always the case. Additionally, the theory does not reconcile with the second law of Thermodynamics and only 6% of the organic matter in large reservoirs comes from biological sources. The biggest mistake, according to Bansal, was the suggestion by the abiotic theory that another method, besides the fossil fuel theory, should be considered. While the suggested method is correct, the theory itself is not. The non-scientific evidence supporting the biomass as the Source is based on several misconceptions and misunderstandings.
00:10:00 In this section of the YouTube video titled "Suresh Bansal: “Biogenic and abiotic hydrocarbons” | Tom Nelson Pod #237", Suresh Bansal discusses the abiogenic theory, which suggests that oil has been formed beneath the Earth's surface without any connection to biomass. He explains that while the scientific explanations for the formation of hydrocarbons without biomass are plausible, the theory fails to explain how simple hydrocarbons are converted into complex ones, which make up the majority of the hydrocarbons we use in our daily life. Bansal asserts that this 20% portion of the theory is non-scientific and that he will present a video to help explain the conversion of simple hydrocarbons into complex ones.
00:15:00 In this section of the YouTube video titled "Suresh Bansal: “Biogenic and abiotic hydrocarbons” | Tom Nelson Pod #237," Suresh Bansal discusses his theory on the formation of hydrocarbons and the role of asteroid impacts in shaping Earth's oil reserves. According to Bansal, when asteroids strike the Earth, they release large amounts of methane, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, minerals, and water into the atmosphere. This material, known as the "Giga Factory," transforms simple hydrocarbons into complex ones through the action of ultraviolet and sun energy in the stratosphere. These complex hydrocarbons eventually rain back down onto the Earth's surface and form pools of hydrocarbons, which then undergo sedimentation to create oil reserves. Bansal emphasizes that these deep-seated hydrocarbons have a limited source rock and can be deposited into crystalline fractured basements, where they are not easily separated from the source rock or soil.
00:20:00 In this section of the YouTube video titled "Suresh Bansal: “Biogenic and abiotic hydrocarbons” | Tom Nelson Pod #237", Suresh Bansal discusses the origins of hydrocarbons, specifically oil and tar sands. He explains that the heavier hydrocarbons have been deposited in areas like Saudi Arabia and Texas, with the first being deposited after the lighter hydrocarbons, and the fourth being the tar sands in Alberta, Canada. He also mentions that simple hydrocarbons have been converted into more complex hydrocarbons via tholin, a substance produced by the atmosphere of Earth. Bansal argues that these hydrocarbons were once available before sedimentation and were not formed in the way that the fossil fuel theory suggests. He emphasizes that the term "Source R" is not a source rock, but rather a term used to describe the sedimentation process of pre-generated hydrocarbons and biomass, with the liquid hydrocarbons being trapped on the way and later becoming oil reservoirs.
00:25:00 In this section of the YouTube video titled "Suresh Bansal: “Biogenic and abiotic hydrocarbons” | Tom Nelson Pod #237," Suresh Bansal clarifies misconceptions about the concept of a "source rock." He explains that the term is often misunderstood, as in the case of tea leaves, which are not a source of hydrocarbons. Bansal also emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the scientific evidence of oil expulsion from sedimentary rocks, which has been overlooked in favor of the biomass theory. He asserts that both biotic and abiotic hydrocarbons play a role in the formation of petroleum, and the PE oil theory is correct. However, he also notes that the estimated reserves of oil could be much larger than currently believed, with examples from Titan, which has a smaller size than Earth but potentially 100 times more oil reserves. Bansal discusses the four processes that contribute to the formation of complex hydrocarbons: beneath the Earth's surface, in the Earth's atmosphere, on the Earth's surface, and in the sedimentary environment.
00:30:00 In this section of the YouTube video titled "Suresh Bansal: “Biogenic and abiotic hydrocarbons” | Tom Nelson Pod #237", Suresh Bansal discusses the possibility of complex hydrocarbons existing before the emergence of life on Earth. He proposes his hypothesis that hydrocarbons were present first, followed by life, rather than the reverse as suggested by the Fossil Fuel Theory. Bansal also believes that there are vast hydrocarbon reservoirs buried deep within the Earth, beyond the reach of current drilling technology. He suggests that these hydrocarbons do not require a source rock, as they can be deposited in various locations, even 10-30 miles below the surface. Bansh also recommends studying tectonic activity to locate these deep hydrocarbon deposits. Conventional oil exploration methods, according to Bansal, are effective for finding oil from sedimentary rocks, but for deep hydrocarbons, he suggests learning from the Russians and Ukrainians who are drilling in areas of high tectonic activity.
00:35:00 In this section of the YouTube video titled "Suresh Bansal: “Biogenic and abiotic hydrocarbons” | Tom Nelson Pod #237", Suresh Bansal discusses the possibility of deep drilling for oil and the challenges associated with it. He believes that the technology for deep drilling needs to be developed and that the Earth's crust can be deeper than 10 miles in some areas. Bansal estimates that oil can be found even without a source rock or reservoir rock, as long as the migration path of hydrocarbons is understood. He criticizes the methods used by oil companies for deep drilling, suggesting they learn from the Russians and Ukrainians who have had success in extracting deep oil using different methods. The Russians have reportedly drilled down to 10,000 meters (approximately 32,800 feet) for deep oil, while American companies have only drilled a few kilometers (miles) for heavy hydrocarbons like those found in Alberta tar sands.
00:40:00 In this section of the YouTube video titled "Suresh Bansal: “Biogenic and abiotic hydrocarbons” | Tom Nelson Pod #237", Suresh Bansal discusses the depth of oil exploration in Russia and the US, and the belief systems behind the origins of oil. According to Bansal, the Russians have been drilling down to 10,000-11,000 meters to find oil, while Americans have not gone deeper because they adhere to the fossil fuel theory, which holds that oil comes from fossilized biomass. However, Bansal argues that all oil is biotic, meaning it comes from living organisms, and that the confusion arises from the fact that fossils have given oil its name. Despite the scientific evidence supporting the biotic origin of oil, there is a consensus in America that oil is allogenic, or derived from non-living sources. Bansal emphasizes the need for both sides to come together and respect each other's scientific evidence to move past this unscientific disagreement.
00:45:00 In this section of the YouTube video titled "Suresh Bansal: “Biogenic and abiotic hydrocarbons” | Tom Nelson Pod #237", Suresh Bansal discusses his efforts to bring together scientists from different sides of the debate over the origins of hydrocarbons, specifically biogenic and abiotic sources. He has attempted to organize a conference in India to facilitate dialogue but has faced resistance from both sides. The biogenic theorists believe that biomass is the primary source of hydrocarbons, while abiotic theorists argue that hydrocarbons can form without the involvement of biomass. Bansal emphasizes that this debate is not just about oil but also about the mechanisms behind the formation of planets and the universe. He shares his confidence in a balanced hypothesis that reconciles both theories, but faces skepticism and dismissal from some scientists. Despite this, Bansal continues to advocate for respectful dialogue and the consideration of all scientific evidence.
00:50:00 In this section of the podcast, Suresh Bansal discusses the hypothesis of abiotic hydrocarbons, which challenges the widely accepted theory of fossil fuels. He expresses frustration with the scientific community's reluctance to consider alternative theories, citing the difficulty of changing long-held beliefs. Bansal believes that there are hundreds or thousands of well-informed people who agree with him, but the conversation often stalls when asked how abiotic hydrocarbons reached the surface without fossils. He also suggests that the fossil fuel theory may be a conspiracy to maintain high oil prices by creating a perception of scarcity. Bansal asserts that there are peer-reviewed scientific papers supporting his theory, with examples including those by Serpetti and Balcano, and mentions the presence of biomarkers in oils as evidence for both sides. Regarding coal, he acknowledges that some types are formed from organic material but argues that liquid hydrocarbons were once present and could have contributed to the formation of certain types of coal.
00:55:00 In this section of the podcast, Suresh Bansal discusses the formation of coal and methane. He clarifies that while some coal and methane have been formed biologically, there is also coal and methane that have not. The latter, known as vinous coal and abiotic methane, were not formed through fossil fuel processes. Instead, they were likely deposited near tectonic activities and pools of hydrocarbons. Bansal emphasizes the importance of discovering these deep oils and learning from the Russians and Ukrainians about the sedimentation process of liquid hydrocarbons. He also corrects misconceptions about hydrocarbon migration and the role of asteroid collisions in the formation of complex hydrocarbons. Listeners can contact Bansal via email at deepthinkers77@gmail.com.

01:00:00 - 01:30:00

In the YouTube video "Suresh Bansal: “Biogenic and abiotic hydrocarbons” | Tom Nelson Pod #237", Suresh Bansal discusses the formation of hydrocarbons, challenging the fossil fuel theory and suggesting a balanced hypothesis. He uses the example of coconut oil sedimentation to explain the formation of oil pools. Bansal also proposes renaming "source rock" as a "large pickled rock" for easier understanding. He emphasizes the importance of understanding petroleum's origin to gain insights into other scientific mechanisms and proposes a new hypothesis about planet formation and the role of asteroid collisions in creating petroleum and the emergence of life. Bansal also shares his thoughts on the potential habitability of Titan and the impact of asteroid strikes on Earth's ecosystem. Throughout the discussion, Bansal emphasizes the need to consider both biogenic and abiotic theories and invites collaboration to explore these ideas further.

01:00:00 In this section of the YouTube video titled "Suresh Bansal: “Biogenic and abiotic hydrocarbons” | Tom Nelson Pod #237", Suresh Bansal discusses the sedimentation process of hydrocarbons using the example of coconut oil. He explains how the different layers of coconut oil, with varying densities, are formed through sedimentation. Bansal then applies this concept to the formation of oil pools, suggesting that thin oil pools were deposited first in deep-seated locations, followed by conventional and oil shale deposits. Bansal also challenges the fossil fuel theory, stating that the input of organic matter is not sufficient to explain the output of fossil fuels. He argues that only a small percentage of organic matter can be converted into carbon, and without a sufficient input, there cannot be an output. Bansal uses an analogy of pickling to explain his point, stating that ancient civilizations used hydrocarbons to preserve mummies, suggesting that biomass has been preserved with biotic hydrocarbons from another source.
01:05:00 In this section of the YouTube video titled "Suresh Bansal: “Biogenic and abiotic hydrocarbons” | Tom Nelson Pod #237", Suresh Bansal suggests renaming the term "source rock" as a "large pickled rock" for easier understanding. He then discusses Titan, a young model of Earth, and how it may one day become habitable and convert to a habitat for life after all hydrocarbons have been recycled back to the surface. Bansal expresses his frustration with scientific theories that don't observe the initial mechanisms, using plate tectonics as an example. He urges scientists to observe every theory from the beginning to the end, as the results will be dramatically different. Bansal also mentions creating a team to produce a film explaining his ideas about Earth's formation, the start of life, and how asteroid collisions charged the Earth's environment to begin a new era.
01:10:00 In this section of the YouTube video titled "Suresh Bansal: “Biogenic and abiotic hydrocarbons” | Tom Nelson Pod #237", Suresh Bansal emphasizes the importance of understanding the origin of petroleum to gain insights into other scientific mechanisms such as planet formation and the workings of the universe. Petroleum, a unique chemistry of various hydrocarbons and nonhydrocarbons, is formed through a single, unique process involving four stages: mental (deep within the Earth), near the surface (like serpentinites), atmospheric, and sedimentary environments. These processes result in various types of hydrocarbons, including petroleum, tar-like substances, and asphalt, which are not all the same but belong to the same family. All hydrocarbons, whether formed biotically or abiotically, are a result of these four processes. The misconception arises because a very minute quantity of biotic hydrocarbons, formed from biological sources, is often mistaken for the entire mixture being biogenic.
01:15:00 In this section of the YouTube video titled "Suresh Bansal: “Biogenic and abiotic hydrocarbons” | Tom Nelson Pod #237", Suresh Bansal discusses the doubtful first point of the fossil fuel theory, which suggests that kogen, a complex hydrocarbon, is formed from biomass. However, Bansal argues that there is evidence against this theory, as kogen has been detected in carbonous condites on Mars and in interstellar clouds and dust around stars. He also mentions that kogen can be formed abiotically under certain conditions. Bansal proposes a new balanced hypothesis that reconciles both biotic and abiotic theories, taking into account scientific evidence and calculations. He also explains that tholin, a type of hydrocarbon, can be produced from abiotic hydrocarbons and convert into tar-like substances similar to kogen. Bansal argues that this balanced hypothesis is more accurate than the purely biotic theory currently accepted. The discussion also clarifies that kogen is a complex hydrocarbon that can be formed both biotically and abiotically, and is present in various places beyond Earth.
01:20:00 In this section of the podcast, Suresh Bansal discusses the origins of hydrocarbons on Earth, suggesting that while biogenic sources may have contributed a small percentage, they cannot account for the vast volumes of hydrocarbons found. He estimates that no more than 1-2% of Earth's oil came from organic sources. Bansal also shares that he has not written down his ideas in a formal way, expressing a desire for assistance in creating a written version, be it a scientific paper, blog post, or documentary. He emphasizes the importance of considering both biogenic and abiotic theories and invites collaboration to explore this idea further.
01:25:00 In this section of the YouTube video titled "Suresh Bansal: “Biogenic and abiotic hydrocarbons” | Tom Nelson Pod #237", Suresh Bansal shares his hypothesis about the formation of planets, including the Earth, and the role of asteroid collisions in the creation of petroleum and the emergence of life. He explains that there was a series of asteroid collisions throughout geological time, some of which occurred before the existence of life on Earth. Bansal suggests that carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and minerals in the atmosphere may have acted as catalysts for the start of life, either in the Earth's atmosphere or on its surface, along with the presence of hydrocarbons. He also mentions the possibility that life and hydrocarbons could have formed together and rained down on the Earth's surface. Bansal further speculates that Titan, a moon of Saturn, could be a future habitat for life due to the presence of hydrocarbons.
01:30:00 In this section of the YouTube video titled "Suresh Bansal: “Biogenic and abiotic hydrocarbons” | Tom Nelson Pod #237", Suresh Bansal discusses the possibility of life on Titan and the impact of asteroid strikes on Earth's ecosystem. He suggests that clear conditions on Titan, with increased temperature and a clear atmosphere, could make it a potential habitat for life in the future. Regarding Earth, Bansal speculates that there have been multiple asteroid strikes since the formation of life, each potentially leading to a new era of life. He is confident that dinosaur life could return after an asteroid strike, as the cycle of life would start anew. Bansal also expresses his belief in the age of the Earth being around 4.6 billion years, but acknowledges that scientists may not have this completely correct.