Optimizing hydrogen generation from petroleum reservoirs: A dual-perspective approach for enhancing efficiency and cleaner production

Abstract

In the pursuit for sustainable energy, hydrogen plays a pivotal role in realizing a carbon-neutral future. Despite the growing emphasis on clean energy, a significant research gap persists in optimizing hydrogen generation from petroleum reservoirs. These reservoirs presents a promising avenue due to their vast energy potential, existing infrastructure, and compatibility with in-situ processes for efficient and eco-friendly hydrogen production. To address this gap, this study employs sensitivity and optimization analyses to explore key reservoir and injection parameters: porosity, permeability, temperature, injection pressure, and the CO₂-O₂ ratio's impact on hydrogen and syngas production.

The optimization analysis identifies crucial conditions: higher porosity, optimal temperature, and CO₂ concentration for maximizing hydrogen yield and aligning with cleaner production objectives. Results show a twofold increase in hydrogen generation, reduced syngas yield, and an improved hydrogen-to-syngas ratio. This not only substantially lowers hydrogen production costs, ensuring cost-competitiveness, but also achieves a notable 98% increase in energy efficiency.

Despite the inherent energy potential in consumed crude oil surpassing that of the produced hydrogen, the preference for hydrogen lies in its cleaner nature and cost advantages. This study positions petroleum reservoirs as clean energy hubs, offering insights into efficient, eco-friendly, and economically viable hydrogen production. The findings guide reservoir selection for investment and large-scale implementation, contributing substantially to knowledge in the field.