Earth's Hidden Hydrogeosphere: Potential for Natural H2 and Helium

In a publication from the annual review of Earth and Planetary Sciences, a paper discusses about a significant portion of Earth's deep groundwater, referred to as the "hidden hydrogeosphere," which is now being recognised as a source of natural hydrogen. This subsurface environment, often overlooked in traditional water cycle models, harbours ancient water which, under the right conditions, generates hydrogen. Additionally, the buildup of helium and the suitability of underground carbon storage are explored within this context, marking the hydrogeosphere's importance in addressing energy challenges. There is still a lot of work that is being done to research natural hydrogen's potential and the impact it could have on the wider hydrogen industry. The US is leading a US$20mm initiative under the ARPA-E to fund research to understand natural hydrogen, techniques for exploration, and its development.

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