Unlocking the potential of solid carbon: synergistic production with hydrogen from oil and gas resources for innovative applications and a sustainable future

This review examines hydrogen (H₂) production from oil and gas resources and the concurrent generation of solid carbon, a byproduct often viewed as waste but with significant potential for innovative uses. The motivation for this review stems from the growing need to explore sustainable H₂ production methods while harnessing the potential of solid carbon byproducts, which are often underutilized. Various H₂ production methods are explored, such as steam-methane reforming, partial oxidation of methane, autothermal reforming, and natural gas decomposition (NGD). These processes are effective but have environmental drawbacks, including carbon dioxide emissions. A key focus is the synergistic production of H₂ and valuable solid carbon. Key findings reveal that solid carbon, produced alongside H₂ from oil and gas resources, holds significant promise for innovative applications across energy storage, construction, and industrial sectors, contributing to a sustainable circular economy (CE). The diverse applications of co-produced solid carbon include electrode materials for energy storage, conductive agents, fuel cells, oxy-combustion, and construction materials. The characterization of derived carbon is analyzed, focusing on how operational conditions and catalysts influence the formation of carbon structures like nanotubes, nanofibers, and amorphous carbon. The importance of solid carbon in H₂ production is highlighted, and its strategic use across industries is advocated. Policy implications are also discussed, aligning these production methods with sustainable development goals and environmental policies such as the CE and carbon capture and utilization. The findings underscore the role of solid carbon in integrating energy production with industrial applications, promoting efficient resource utilization, and advancing a sustainable CE.

Graphical Abstract

Hydrogen-production methods and the generation of solid carbon as a byproduct are presented. The transformative potential of solid carbon, including its diverse applications ranging from energy storage to construction, is discussed, as well as how operational conditions shape carbon’s structure. Carbon plays a pivotal role in advancing a sustainable, circular economy and has significant industrial application.