Graduate Seminar – Hydrogen: The Future Carbon-Free Energy Source

As the world shifts toward carbon-free energy, hydrogen (H₂) is emerging as a vital player due to its high energy density and potential for CO₂-free production and storage. However, large-scale hydrogen energy systems face significant challenges. This talk will examine these challenges and highlight the opportunities hydrogen presents for a sustainable energy future, particularly through a case study on subsurface storage in saline aquifers. We will discuss the geological, technical, and economic aspects of underground hydrogen storage, including its long-term feasibility and risks. Additionally, we’ll explore hydrogen production from subsurface processes, focusing on serpentinization, where ultramafic rocks react with water to generate hydrogen. The talk will address the conditions for serpentinization, its potential as a low-carbon production method, and the challenges in optimizing this process for commercial use.