This term the MIT Department of Earth, Atmospheric and Planetary Sciences is offering a special seminar for MIT students taught by Professors Oli Jagoutz (director of ERL) and Matej Pec: 12.S591 "Seminar on Energy Transition – Geologic Hydrogen."

"Modern civilization relies on abundant and inexpensive energy. Carbon-based fuels currently supply approximately 60% of the 400 TWh of electricity consumed annually in the US, necessitating an urgent transition to carbon-free energy sources. Hydrogen is poised to play an increasingly significant role in the future energy mix, as it emits no greenhouse gases when burned. However, current hydrogen production technologies, such as methane reforming or electrolysis, appear insufficient for scaling up in a carbon-neutral and cost-effective manner. The prospect of in situ hydrogen production from hydration reactions of iron-rich subsurface rocks at large, sustainable rates could transform the energy landscape in a carbon-constrained future. 

This seminar comprises lectures introducing key topics, followed by a literature review and student presentations on selected subjects. We will dive into the details of fluid-rock interactions and metamorphic reactions that occur when mafic and ultramafic rocks are exposed to aqueous fluids and liberate hydrogen. We will explore where and when hydrogen is produced naturally during tectonic processes and will discuss possible strategies for engineering hydrogen production. This is a PhD-level seminar class designed for students interested in the Energy transition, undergraduates are welcome to participate after discussion with the instructors."

Cover image: Smithsonian Institution, CC0