Description

The American Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG) and the United States Geological Survey (USGS) have recently launched dedicated initiatives to explore naturally occurring hydrogen marking a significant shift in global energy research and future sustainability strategies.

About Natural Hydrogen

Natural hydrogen, often referred to as white hydrogen, is a naturally occurring form of molecular hydrogen (H?) found within the Earth's crust. Unlike grey, blue, or green hydrogen, which are produced using fossil fuels or renewable energy, white hydrogen forms through natural geological processes, requiring no artificial generation. This makes it a potentially carbon-neutral and cost-effective energy source.

Natural Hydrogen Form

Natural hydrogen is produced underground through a variety of geochemical and radiological processes, such as:

• Serpentinisation: A chemical reaction between ultramafic rocks (rich in iron and magnesium) and water, typically occurring in tectonically active regions and ophiolite belts.

• Radiolysis of Water: The splitting of water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen due to radiation from radioactive elements like uranium, thorium, or potassium in the Earth’s crust.

• Thermal Decomposition of Organic Matter: Deep geological formations rich in organic sediments may naturally release hydrogen through long-term decomposition processes.

• Hydrothermal Activity: Interaction of groundwater with hot rock or magma may also contribute to the generation and mobilization of hydrogen.

These processes often occur in environments such as fractured basement rocks, hydrothermal systems, and volcanic terrains.

Natural Hydrogen Significant

• Clean Energy Potential - White hydrogen offers a zero-emission alternative if extracted and utilized efficiently, making it an essential component of the energy transition.

• Cost Advantages - Estimates suggest that natural hydrogen could be extracted at a cost of $0.50 to $1 per kilogram, significantly cheaper than green hydrogen, which often exceeds $3/kg due to high electricity costs.

• Scalability & Abundance - Preliminary studies have indicated that natural hydrogen seeps are more common than previously thought, opening up the possibility of large-scale production.

• Reduced Environmental Impact - Unlike conventional hydrogen production methods, which can emit CO? or demand large energy inputs, natural hydrogen requires minimal processing and causes lower ecological disruption.

Geological Settings Favorable For Natural Hydrogen

Natural hydrogen is typically found in specific geological and tectonic settings that promote its generation and accumulation:

• Tectonically active regions

• Ultramafic and basaltic formations

• Ophiolite belts and ancient oceanic crust remnants

• Hydrothermal systems and hot springs

• Basement rock fractures and deep faults

India’s Potential In Natural Hydrogen Exploration

India, with its diverse geological formations, is also seen as a prospective region for white hydrogen development. Key zones include:

• Cratonic Belts - Stable continental cores such as the Dharwar, Bastar, and Singhbhum cratons could host serpentinised rocks suitable for hydrogen formation.

• Sedimentary Basins - Regions like the Vindhyan, Gondwana, Cuddapah, and Chhattisgarh basins are known for deep organic deposits and favorable subsurface structures.

• Ophiolitic Zones - The Andaman-Nicobar Islands and the Tethyan Himalayas host ophiolitic complexes with high ultramafic rock content ideal for serpentinisation.

• Hydrothermal and Fracture Zones - Areas with known hot springs, deep fractures, and fault systems may serve as natural migration pathways or traps for hydrogen gas.

Global Implications And Road Ahead

The formal move by AAPG and USGS to investigate white hydrogen could usher in a new phase of geologically-sourced clean energy. If proven viable on a commercial scale, it could reshape global hydrogen supply chains, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and help nations meet their net-zero targets.

India, too, can benefit from exploring this largely untapped resource, supplementing its National Green Hydrogen Mission with indigenous natural hydrogen reserves.

Welcome to Notopedia.com, your free learning platform that caters to the diverse needs of students and aspirants across a spectrum of entrance exams and educational endeavors. Whether you're preparing for highly anticipated exams like CAT, NEET, JEE Main, or bank job vacancies, our platform offers a wealth of resources to guide you towards success. Stay up-to-date with the latest exam dates, announcements, and results for various government recruitment exams, including SSC CGL, CHSL, NDA, and UPSC. Explore comprehensive study materials, sample papers, and exam patterns to hone your skills and boost your confidence. From important dates like CBSE Class 10 and 12 date sheets to exam-specific information like JEE Main application form date, we cover it all. Notopedia.com is your go-to source for everything from admissions and admit cards to scholarships and college information. Whether you're aiming for a career in defense, government, banking, or higher education, our free learning platform equips you with the knowledge and resources you need to excel. Join us in your educational journey and unlock a world of opportunities, guidance, and comprehensive support.

For more Updates and Information - Visit Notopedia's Bulletin Board

For Latest Sarkari Jobs - Visit Notopedia's Sarkari Jobs Section

For access to more than 20,000 Colleges - Visit Notopedia's College Section

For School Studies and Exams Preparation across 14 Boards - Visit Notopedia's School Section

For Comprehensive Preparation of Sarkari Job Exams - Visit Notopedia's Sarkari Exams Section

For Comprehensive Preparation of Competitive Exams - Visit Notopedia's College Entrance Exams Section