unpublished. For the first time in its history, the scientific community interested in natural hydrogen emissions is meeting digitally on June 2 and 3 for the H-Nat 2021 International Congress. Researchers will take stock of potential deposits on the surface of the globe and around the world. Possibilities of Harnessing Clean and Possibly Renewable Energy Researcher Isabel Moretti from the University of Pau explores the potential of natural hydrogen. A member of the Academy of Technology, she was one of our interlocutors in the file “Hydrogen Solutions” number 889 Science and Avenir – Research, dated March 2021.

“A century ago we produced town gas by burning coal, then large reserves of natural gas were found and almost everywhere we stopped manufacturing this industrial gas, which was more expensive than country gas, which was produced by energy. Was intense and polluting and contained highly toxic carbon monoxide. Could there be a similar evolution for hydrogen? No doubt, but obviously, always with natural resources, not everywhere. Hydrogen is generated daily on the planet : Rocks oxidize on contact with water (H₂O), retain oxygen and release hydrogen (H.)^₂)”.

“accidental discoveries” from hydrogen sources

“A phenomenon known for forty years on ocean ridges – these chains of submarine volcanoes where oceans form – but we are realizing it is also happening on land. Following accidental discoveries by water-seeking drillers , as in Mali, or hydrocarbons, in the United States or Australia, scientists, engineers, industrialists are organizing. Data from Mali, where natural hydrogen production began seven years ago, to produce electricity for a neighboring village. It has been observed for years that the pressure in the well does not decrease, which means that the reservoir is constantly filling up. Geological contexts conducive to the exploration of natural hydrogen sources are emerging as research progresses”.

“Renewable and cheaper hydrogen would complement that produced by the electrolyzer”

“These are areas on the one hand where rocks from the Earth’s mantle are found either in contact with ocean water, such as at the level of ocean ridges, or with rainwater, such as in the African Rift or Iceland. Then , in areas where ancient oceanic crust is undergoing compression events (Oman, New Caledonia, etc.). Finally, near rocks rich in metal ions such as iron on much older parts of continental crust such as Australia, Russia, United It can be found in the state or Brazil. It will complement the renewable and cheap hydrogen produced by electrolysers. It promises a bright future for hydrogen”.