A novel method for hydrogen synthesis in natural gas reservoirs

Abstract

Hydrogen has been proven as a promising energy resource for a clean and sustainable future. However, the complete replacement of conventional hydrocarbon energy sources poses a challenge due to their widespread industrial utilization. Despite the gradual depletion of petroleum and natural gas reserves, they continued to serve as primary energy sources for many decades. But what if we could repurpose these hydrocarbons? Currently, fossil fuels that are both non-renewable and environmentally unfriendly are directly used for energy generation. Instead, we could convert hydrocarbons into a significantly cleaner alternative – hydrogen. This process implies in situ hydrogen generation even before hydrocarbons are recovered from a reservoir without releasing greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. In this context, we explore the conversion of methane into hydrogen in the gas reservoir with zero oil saturation via steam methane reforming initiated by in situ gas combustion. In the experimental model, different rock porous media were utilized and the process parameters such as temperature and the steam-to-methane ratio were varied. The outcome reveals a range of variations, each yielding different concentrations of hydrogen produced depending on these adjustable parameters. Our findings suggest the incredible potential for underground hydrogen generation in natural gas reservoirs. This approach holds great promise as a leading candidate for the foreseeable future, benefiting from the synergy of the fossil fuel industry and an innovative hydrogen production technology.