Prospecting for underground natural hydrogen - new energy for the future

Abstract

Hydrogen, accounting for 75% of ordinary matter by mass and over 90% by atomic number, is the third most abundant element on the Earth's surface, mainly in the form of chemical compounds such as water and hydrocarbons. When burned, hydrogen gas (H2) produces heat and water without causing environmental pollution, thus it is expected to be one of the clean energy sources for the future. Industrial hydrogen has so far been mainly produced by thermochemical processes of fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas, and insignificantly by electrolysis of water. Recent natural hydrogen discoveries recorded in the world, especially the exploration and discovery of relatively pure underground hydrogen which was extracted and used as fuel for a local power generator in Bourakebougou (Mali), show the possibility of prospecting for underground natural hydrogen. The article provides an overview of natural hydrogen discoveries over the world and gives recommendations on the prospecting for underground natural hydrogen in Vietnam.