A systematic study of the mechanical properties of THF-HBSs by Yun et al. [223] has yielded useful insights, but the applicability to HBS systems has yet to be dem­onstrated. No corresponding systematic study for methane HBS has been published, although such studies have been initiated. The mechanical strength of a number of laboratory-formed and natural methane hydrate-bearing samples has also been mea­sured [112,113], and Waite et al. [206] provided a summary of laboratory measure­ments of the mechanical properties of HBS. Studies on mechanical properties of HBS have been hampered by complex equipment needs, and the difficulties of working with methane hydrate. Data are needed particularly for hydrate saturations below 50% and for fine-grain media because much of the hydrate in oceanic depos­its is present in low saturations providing risk to oil and gas operations.