Geological Hydrogen from Natural Processes

We must unlock zero-carbon hydrogen from geologic formations to meet the rising demand for hydrogen.

The reduction of water by ferrous iron in minerals generates geologic hydrogen.

This process occurs when water interacts with iron-rich rocks under anoxic conditions. Geological hydrogen is most common in magnesium and iron-rich rocks such as peridotite.

Drilling and injecting water directly into iron-rich rocks stimulates the naturally occurring process of hydrogen production. For example, a peridotite can produce2–4 kg H₂ per m3 of rock through iron oxidation reactions. Globally, there are 10¹⁷ m3 of accessible peridotite.

THE PROBLEM

Fossil Fuels Produce Most Hydrogen

Local communities and governments must first identify clean energy sources as they push to decarbonize their energy grids.

Hydrogen is a zero-carbon energy source that can decarbonize various sectors, including long-haul transport, chemicals, iron, and steel. However, processes that rely on fossil fuels produce most of today’s hydrogen.

“Grey” hydrogen, which generates up to 60% of our hydrogen supply, is made from reforming natural gas or methane and emits 100% of the CO₂ produced.

The demand for sustainably produced hydrogen is skyrocketing

The development of clean hydrogen supplies, like “Green” hydrogen, produced with renewable energy, is not keeping up with the rising demand. As a result, by 2030, clean hydrogen will only meet about 10% of global market needs.

Geologic hydrogen could supply 5Mt H2/year for every 1km3 rock that can react with water. However, to unlock this clean hydrogen supply, we need permeability enhancement solutions and a better understanding of how to stimulate the kinetic reactions that generate hydrogen.

The demand for sustainably produced hydrogen is skyrocketing.

The development of clean hydrogen supplies, like “Green” hydrogen, produced with renewable energy, is not keeping up with the rising demand. As a result, by 2030, clean hydrogen will only meet about 10% of global market needs.
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Geologic hydrogen could supply 5Mt H2/year for every 1km3 rock that can react with water. However, to unlock this clean hydrogen supply, we need permeability enhancement solutions and a better understanding of how to stimulate the kinetic reactions that generate hydrogen.

THE SOLUTION

How Electrical Reservoir Stimulation Increases the Production of Geologic Hydrogen

Electrical Reservoir Stimulation creates dense micro-fracture networks in low-permeability iron-rich rocks, which enables water to be injected and circulated. Stimulation increases the reactive surface area between the water and rock and results in higher volumes of hydrogen production from geological formations.

Electrical Reservoir Stimulation reservoir temperature and speed up the reaction kinetics for higher rates of geologic hydrogen production. Our technology will produce thousands of tons of geologic hydrogen annually.

Environmental Impact

Geologic hydrogen is needed to reach 17,000 TWh of hydrogen-based energy to reach net-zero emissions by 2050

Every million tons of geologic hydrogen saves 33 GWh of electricity.

Permeability management enhances hydrogen production

Geologic Hydrogen Production

EARTH'S HYDROGEN FACTORIES

Manufacturing hydrogen, a carbon-free fuel, is environmentally unfriendly and costly. However, an alternative approach to obtaining hydrogen may be possible. Some researchers believe abundant and potentially renewable sources of natural hydrogen exist underground. If proven true, this discovery could offer a more cost-effective solution.

Source: Energy Resources Program “AAS Infographic of Hydrogen Factories”, (2023).