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Research at the Stanford Geologic Hydrogen Industrial Affiliates Program (IAP)

Research at Stanford focuses on developing the scientific and engineering foundations needed to transform geologic hydrogen from an emerging scientific curiosity into a scalable energy resource. Our work integrates geochemistry, geophysics, basin modeling, rock physics, subsurface engineering, and techno-economic analysis to understand how hydrogen forms, migrates, accumulates, and can be produced from the subsurface.

A defining feature of the Stanford Geologic Hydrogen Industrial Affiliates Program is its role as a clearinghouse for geologic hydrogen research. Multiple research groups at Stanford contribute complementary expertise—from experimental geochemistry and subsurface engineering to energy systems analysis and geophysical modeling. The program also collaborates closely with external partners including the U.S. Geological Survey, nearby national labs, and international field researchers. By integrating insights across disciplines and institutions, Stanford aims to break down silos in this rapidly developing field and accelerate the translation of scientific discoveries into practical exploration strategies.

Finally, by combining fundamental research with industry-relevant modeling and field observations, the consortium aims to provide practical insights that accelerate exploration success and guide the development of the geologic hydrogen industry.

Research Impact

Stanford’s geologic hydrogen research to date has contributed to:

  • Defining the first techno-economic frameworks for geologic hydrogen
  • Developing rock physics tools for hydrogen exploration
  • Identifying geological environments favorable for hydrogen generation
  • Advancing concepts for stimulated hydrogen production
  • Supporting exploration strategies for hydrogen resources worldwide

Exploration Methods and Rock Physics

This work establishes rock physics relationships that link the physical properties of ultramafic rocks to the degree of serpentinization—a key hydrogen-generating process. By compiling data from more than 1,000 samples across diverse geologic environments

Hydrogen Generation Experiments

Conducted by our collaborating industrial affiliates program SUETRI-A, this study investigates hydrogen generation during serpentinization under controlled laboratory conditions designed to simulate subsurface flow systems.

What Makes Stanford Unique

By serving as a clearinghouse for geologic hydrogen knowledge, the Stanford Geologic Hydrogen Consortium aims to accelerate discovery and help build the scientific foundations of this emerging energy industry.