September 22, 2026
Journal Article

Enhanced Recovery of Critical Minerals and Geological Hydrogen in The Mine of the Future

Abstract

invited perspective article: The rapid demand for critical minerals (CMs) and hydrogen (H2) necessitates innovative solutions beyond conventional mining. This study explores enhanced mineral recovery (EMR) and geological hydrogen production (GeoH2) by leveraging the Earth’s subsurface as a reactive platform. Using ultramafic rocks and engineered fluids, the approach simultaneously mobilizes critical resources and produces H2 through natural processes like serpentinization. This paradigm offers a transformative pathway to secure essential materials and diversify energy resources, setting a foundation for the Terrestrial Mine of the Future

Published: September 22, 2026

Citation

Yan K., C.H. Stanfield, E.G. Polites, N. Lahiri, Y. Teng, H. Chopra, and N.V. Lopez Rivera, et al. 2026. Enhanced Recovery of Critical Minerals and Geological Hydrogen in The Mine of the Future. ACS Sustainable Resource Management 3, no. 2. PNNL-SA-220226. doi:10.1021/acssusresmgt.5c00580

Research topics

Subsurface Science
Subsurface Energy Systems