Researchers at the GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences have identified where to find natural hydrogen resources using advanced simulations of plate tectonic processes. The team, led by Dr. Frank Zwaan, has discovered that mountain ranges in which deep mantle rocks are found near the surface may hold potential for large-scale natural hydrogen production.
According to the study, these mountain ranges could be ideal locations for generating and accumulating hydrogen gas due to favourable geological conditions. Natural hydrogen can be produced through various processes, including bacterial transformation of organic material or the splitting of water molecules driven by radioactive decay in the Earth’s continental crust.
The researchers used plate tectonic modelling to simulate the full evolution of plates from rifting to mountain building, and found that conditions for natural hydrogen generation are better in mountain ranges than in rift basins. The simulations showed that larger volumes of exhumed mantle rocks can be found at favourable temperatures for serpentinisation, resulting in an annual hydrogen generation capacity up to 20 times greater.
The study provides a strong foundation for intensifying the exploration of natural hydrogen in mountain ranges. Researchers have already identified potential sites such as the Pyrenees, European Alps, and Balkans. Dr. Zwaan emphasized the need for developing novel concepts and strategies to control the formation of economic natural H2 accumulations, and highlighted the importance of understanding the timing of key geological processes involved.
The insights gained from this study will be invaluable in determining the potential for large-scale natural hydrogen production, making it a promising alternative to current fossil fuels.
Source: https://www.innovationnewsnetwork.com/exploiting-natural-hydrogen-sources-is-key-for-the-green-energy-transition/55630