Geochemical interactions in geological hydrogen Storage: The role of sandstone clay content

Ahmed Al-Yaseri*, Nurudeen Yekeen, Hani Al-Mukainah, Aliakbar Hassanpouryouzband

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

9 Scopus citations

Abstract

Hydrogen holds promise as a clean energy alternative, crucial for achieving global decarbonization goals and net-zero carbon emissions. Its low volumetric energy density necessitates underground storage in sandstone formations to maintain year-round supply. The efficacy of such storage hinges on the geochemical interplay between hydrogen and the host sandstone. Despite the slow reaction rates in sandstone, the influence of its clay composition on hydrogen interaction remains underexplored. In this study, we specifically investigate the geochemical interactions of hydrogen with clay-bearing sandstone formations under controlled conditions, simulating storage scenarios. This study evaluates the impact of clay on hydrogen-sandstone geochemistry after 75 days of injection at 1500 psi and 75 °C into Berea and Bandera gray sandstone cores, utilizing microcomputed tomography to assess changes in pore structure. Our results reveal that, even in sandstones with high clay content, there is negligible alteration in porosity and mineral content, as well as minimal clay and quartz dissolution or expansion over storage time, indicating stability in these formations. These findings provide crucial insights for selecting suitable geological formations for hydrogen storage, supporting the global shift towards sustainable energy systems Our study contributes to the global efforts in decarbonization by providing essential guidance on the feasibility of using clay-bearing sandstone formations for efficient and sustainable hydrogen storage.

Original languageEnglish
Article number130728
JournalFuel
Volume361
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Apr 2024

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2023 Elsevier Ltd

Keywords

  • Clay
  • Geochemical reactions
  • Hydrogen
  • Sandstone
  • Underground hydrogen storage

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Chemical Engineering
  • Fuel Technology
  • Energy Engineering and Power Technology
  • Organic Chemistry

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