Recent Advances in White Hydrogen Exploration and Production: A Mini Review
Victor Joseph Aimikhe *
Department of Petroleum and Gas Engineering, University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria.
Oghenegare Emmanuel Eyankware
Department of Petroleum and Gas Engineering, University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
The quest for natural or white hydrogen exploration and production emanates from the growing interest in clean, carbon-free hydrogen energy. Countries all over the world are beginning to formulate legislation to promote hydrogen production as a way of combating global warming occasioned by climate change. Currently, all avenues for producing hydrogen are either very expensive or environmentally unsustainable. White hydrogen in commercial accumulations might produce cheaper and more environmentally sustainable hydrogen energy, thus providing a viable alternative to other forms of renewable energy. Despite its potential to become the cheapest hydrogen source, published literature on its occurrence, sources, accumulation, generation processes, and recovery methods are scarce. Consequently, little is known regarding white hydrogen sources, accumulation, and extraction. This study reviewed the various sources and forms in which white hydrogen can exist in nature. The various processes by which white hydrogen is produced and extracted have also been presented. This work aimed to offer new perspectives and direction for future research on white hydrogen exploration and production. Furthermore, the current challenges of white hydrogen exploration and production, and its future outlook, were also presented.
Keywords: Natural hydrogen, white hydrogen, hydrogen fuel, hydrogen production and extraction