While visiting Gazprom's VNIIGaz institute of natural gas research and gas technology, Prime Minister Vladimir Putin examined Kamaz trucks with gas engines developed by the institute. This engine is just as efficient as a common petrol engine, yet its service life is longer. The cost of the gas engine is recouped in 18-24 months.

Mr Putin examined another promising VNIIGaz project involving the development of an organic substance that removes hydrocarbon pollutants. The new product, adapted to the Russian climate and other specifics, is based on specially bred bacteria which destroy oil and other hydrocarbon compounds. Five kilos of this product is enough to destroy a metric ton of oil products.

The prime minister was shown new welding technology for super-durable pipes, as well as pipes with a ballast coating for underwater pipelines, and self-diagnosing equipment for such pipes. Gazprom is intensively using the institute's developments in its projects.

Mr Putin also examined a pilot unit converting natural gas into synthetic liquid fuels. This technology will also improve the efficiency of associated petroleum gas processing, improve the fuel's quality to comply with Euro-5 and other higher environmental standards, and expand the possibilities for Russia's energy exports.

The institute, which is Gazprom's main research centre, employs over 2,000 people; its facilities include over 100 labs and 60 experimental units.