The discovery of a natural hydrogen deposit in France could revolutionise the world’s energy supply. Switzerland is joining the search for this renewable energy source that releases no greenhouse gases when combusted. But all that glitters is not gold.
Hydrogen is considered a key element in the energy transition. It could replace petrol in cars and kerosene in aircraft, helping to bring about carbon-neutral mobility. But there is a catch: producing it gives off climate-damaging emissions. More than 90% of the hydrogen generated worldwide comes from fossil sources, mainly methane. Alternatives do exist, such as hydrogen obtained from renewable energy, but they are still expensive.
Interest is thus turning to naturally occurring hydrogen and the possibility of extracting it from deep below the Earth’s surface. Start-ups in the United States, Australia and Spain have already launched drilling projects and the recent discovery of deposits in France shows that this gas is not as rare as previously thought. Switzerland may also have reserves of natural hydrogen, and the first surveys carried out have shown promising results.
Here is everything you need to know about natural hydrogen, its characteristics and its potential as a fuel of the future.
How is natural hydrogen formed?
Earth produces hydrogen continuously through chemical reactions, mainly the oxidation of ferrous minerals and water radiolysis (that is, the decomposition of water molecules as a result of natural radioactivity). These reactions release hydrogen molecules (H2), which are usually present in combination with other elements, for instance oxygen in the case of water (H2O). The hydrogen rises to the surface or builds up in underground deposits.
How do natural and synthetic hydrogen differ?
The properties and chemical composition are the same and, in both cases, it is an odourless and highly flammable gas. The difference lies in how it is produced: natural hydrogen, which is known as white hydrogen, is generated deep in the earth’s crust, while synthetic hydrogen is created through chemical and industrial processes. ...