The mountains could hide endless hydrogen reserves that could change the global energy balance.
Scientists at the Helmholtz center for GFZ geological sciences have found that mountain ranges can produce and store large amounts of natural hydrogen as a result of natural geological processes. The researchers used the modeling of tectonic processes to determine exactly where hydrogen deposits could be located. It has been shown that in the areas of formation of the mountains, such as the Pyrenees, the Alps and the Himalayas, the deep rocks of the mantle are close to the surface, creating conditions for the active formation of this gas. An important role is played by the serpentine process, in which rocks interact with water to release hydrogen.
According to researchers’ estimates, natural hydrogen production in the mountains can be 20 times more efficient than in rift areas. This is due to the optimal combination of factors: the temperature regime, the presence of water and porous rocks that can serve as gas tanks. Scientists point out that these deposits can be extracted by drilling, similar to conventional oil and gas extraction. The initial exploration works are already in progress in the mountainous regions of Europe, including the Balkans, the Pyrenees and the Alps. The traces of natural hydrogen discovered argue the hypothesis that it is present in significant quantities. The development of this area could lead to a new energy industry based on clean, carbon fingerprint extraction.
Hydrogen has long been considered a promising fuel of the future, because its burning only produces water, without polluting the environment. However, existing methods of hydrogen production often involve carbon dioxide emissions. Natural hydrogen, if produced economically, could be a discovery in the field of global energy. According to Frank Zwaan, the main author of the study, understanding the mechanisms of natural hydrogen formation opens new perspectives for energy. The study emphasizes the importance of studying rock systems and developing exploration strategies that will help find the largest accumulations of this valuable resource. The potential for large -scale use of natural hydrogen could be an essential step in combating climatic changes and reducing fossil fuel addiction.
