ROCK PROCESS STORES CO2 AND PRODUCES HYDROGEN

Researchers have identified a geological process that simultaneously sequesters carbon dioxide and generates hydrogen gas. The reaction involves injecting CO2 into certain rock formations, triggering a chemical response that releases hydrogen as a byproduct. Scientists describe the outcome as a dual climate benefit, addressing both carbon storage and clean fuel production in a single process. The findings have been published and are drawing attention from the energy and climate science communities.

The process centres on a reaction between CO2 and iron-rich rocks, a chemical interaction known as serpentinisation. When CO2 contacts these minerals under the right conditions, the rocks absorb the carbon while releasing hydrogen. Researchers found that the CO2 accelerates the reaction, producing hydrogen at a faster rate than the natural geological process alone. The hydrogen generated is considered a clean fuel, producing only water when burned or used in a fuel cell.

The discovery holds potential implications for both carbon capture strategy and hydrogen fuel supply chains. Current carbon capture methods focus solely on storing CO2, making this dual-output approach a notable development in the field. Hydrogen production today relies heavily on natural gas, a process that itself generates CO2 emissions. Scientists indicate further research is needed to assess the scalability of the rock-based reaction for industrial application.