MIT engineers have developed a groundbreaking method to produce hydrogen gas by utilizing pure aluminum from soda cans and mixing it with seawater. This reaction, detailed in a study published in Cell Reports Physical Science, offers a sustainable source of clean energy without carbon emissions. By pretreating aluminum pellets with a rare-metal alloy, the aluminum reacts with seawater to generate hydrogen, which can be used to power engines or fuel cells efficiently. The addition of caffeine as a stimulant has been found to significantly accelerate the hydrogen production process, making the reaction more practical for maritime applications. The researchers are designing a compact reactor that can run on marine vessels or underwater vehicles. This reactor would utilize recycled aluminum pellets along with gallium-indium and caffeine, eliminating the need to carry large tanks of hydrogen and making the process more convenient and accessible. By reusing the rare-metal alloy through a method involving seawater, the team aims to create a cost-effective and sustainable system for producing hydrogen. The use of seawater as a solution not only simplifies the production process but also contributes to the eco-friendliness of the system. By leveraging the ions in seawater, the researchers can recover gallium-indium and maintain a continuous cycle of hydrogen production. This innovative approach to harnessing hydrogen from aluminum and seawater presents a promising solution for powering vehicles and vessels with a renewable and clean energy source.