A group of Penn State researchers has been selected to receive $1.1 million in funding from the U.S. Department of Energy to advance research on geologic hydrogen extraction and production. Led by Shimin Liu and Derek Elsworth, the team aims to understand and potentially extract pure hydrogen from subsurface reservoirs, unlocking a clean energy source that could contribute to a sustainable, energy-independent future. Geologic hydrogen, generated through natural water-rock interactions in the Earth's subsurface, offers a low-cost, low-emissions alternative to traditional hydrogen sources. By leveraging the serpentinization process in peridotite rocks, the researchers plan to develop a unique technology for sustainable hydrogen production, focusing on creating reactive surface areas at the correct depth. This innovative approach involves injecting carbon dioxide to increase permeability and using carbon-rich solutions to induce and sustain serpentinization. The team's high-risk, high-reward project also aims to assess potential reservoir sites rich in olivine peridotite across the U.S., prioritizing locations like California and the Midcontinent Rift. By addressing challenges such as induced seismicity and environmental impacts, the researchers hope to maximize hydrogen production while ensuring safety and sustainability.