Innovations in Geologic Hydrogen and Magnet Technology at the ARPA-E Summit
Geologic Hydrogen: A Fuel of the Future
Recent discussions at the ARPA-E summit highlighted the growing interest in geologic hydrogen, particularly the efforts aimed at locating underground stores of this valuable gas. Hydrogen has the potential to serve as a versatile fuel source across various sectors, including transportation and heavy industry.
As part of its initiatives, ARPA-E has supported several projects focused on geologic hydrogen, one of which originates from MIT’s lab led by researcher Iwnetim Abate. The team is not only focused on locating hydrogen but is also experimenting with subsurface conditions to facilitate its production. A significant milestone was reached earlier this year when Abate’s team published findings that demonstrate the capability of producing hydrogen and other chemicals, such as ammonia, using catalysts under typical underground conditions.
In connection with this research, Abate has co-founded a startup named Addis Energy, aimed at bringing these groundbreaking findings to market. This venture has also received backing from ARPA-E, emphasizing the importance of this research in the quest for energy solutions.
Materials for Chemical Production
The research team showcased various rock samples, illustrating how different geological materials, from resilient basalt to softer talc, could contribute to producing hydrogen and other valuable compounds.
Niron Magnetics: A New Era of Magnet Technology
As attendees moved through the exhibition areas, the sound of an electric guitar caught their attention, powered by innovative iron nitride magnets from Niron Magnetics. This display demonstrated the company’s unique approach to magnet technology, diverging from the rare earth metals commonly used in powerful magnets today.
The increasing demand for high-efficiency magnets, largely driven by the growing electric vehicle market and global wind turbine production, has brought attention to the geopolitical complexities surrounding the supply chains, primarily concentrated in China. Niron seeks to address these challenges by utilizing more readily available materials like nitrogen and iron in its magnets.
The featured guitar serves as a prototype; traditional electric guitar magnets typically incorporate aluminum, nickel, and cobalt. However, Niron’s magnet technology simplifies this by replacing these rare elements with its iron nitride alternatives. The company’s journey includes the opening of a pilot commercial facility in late 2024, with an annual production capacity set at 10 tons of magnets.
Future Aspirations
Since the last Niron update, the company announced plans for a full-scale facility capable of producing approximately 1,500 tons of magnets annually once operational, demonstrating a commitment to broadening its production capabilities and addressing market demand effectively.
