ECU Researchers Identify 200°C Magnetite Route to Natural Hydrogen in Western Australia
Updated
Updated · SciTechDaily · Aug 24
ECU Researchers Identify 200°C Magnetite Route to Natural Hydrogen in Western Australia
1 articles · Updated · SciTechDaily · Aug 24
Summary
Edith Cowan University researchers say magnetite in Western Australia’s Pilbara could generate naturally occurring hydrogen, pointing to a potential new low-emission energy source beneath major iron ore deposits.
At 200°C and high pressure over 60 days, lab tests reproduced deep underground conditions and showed magnetite can release hydrogen when it reacts with hot water.
The team also found the process may be boosted by injecting a solution into banded iron formations, though output depends on whether water can reach fresh mineral surfaces through fractures, pores and permeable pathways.
Researchers said Western Australia’s vast banded iron formations could support domestic energy security and, if the resource can be unlocked at scale, a future clean-hydrogen export industry.