# Western Australia's red soil may conceal a massive clean energy source Researchers discovered that iron-rich formations can produce natural hydrogen. - **Source:** [Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily](https://brifing.si/source/0eef8637-6c5b-4e79-8f5b-6c9c6b36cf16) - **Published:** 2026-08-29 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/8d1567d5-ecef-40f0-a045-e8dc1798fa38 ## Discovery in Western Australia's red soil Researchers at Edith Cowan University found that iron-rich formations in Western Australia can produce natural hydrogen. The magnetite mineral abundant in the massive iron deposits of the Pilbara region releases hydrogen gas when reacting with underground hot water. This discovery suggests the region could transform into a new domestic energy source. ## Magnetite's hydrogen production potential Researchers proved in laboratory conditions that magnetite produces hydrogen when reacting with water at 200°C under high pressure. Sixty-day experiments mimicking underground hot and pressurized conditions illuminated the natural hydrogen formation process. They successfully increased hydrogen production by injecting solutions into banded iron formations. ## Massive clean energy reserve Associate Professor Alireza Keshavarz states Western Australia sits atop a massive clean energy reserve. The region's banded iron formations are among the world's largest. If this resource can be utilized at scale, it could meet Australia's energy needs for generations and potentially make it a clean energy exporter. ## Potential contribution to energy independence Lead author Kaveh Moghanirahimi emphasizes this resource could strengthen Western Australia's energy independence. Access to naturally produced hydrogen during crises could enhance the region's energy security. This discovery gains strategic importance as the world moves away from fossil fuels. ## Transition from lab to real world Professor Stefan Iglauer from ECU's School of Engineering notes the findings bridge the gap between lab experiments and actual underground conditions. The research revealed hydrogen production depends not only on magnetite quantity but also rock structure. Cracks and pores allowing water to reach fresh mineral surfaces prove critical. ## Importance of rock structure Results show hydrogen production efficiency directly relates to rock permeability characteristics. Cracks, pores, and permeable pathways enabling water to reach fresh magnetite surfaces are vital for natural hydrogen to become a practical energy source. These findings introduce new criteria for selecting potential production sites. ## Contribution to global energy transition Published in the International Journal of Hydrogen Energy, this research marks a significant milestone in the search for low-emission energy sources. Magnetite-based natural hydrogen production could contribute to global energy transition as an alternative to fossil fuels. Western Australia's potential leadership in this field offers new economic opportunities. ## Turning point for the energy sector This discovery is considered groundbreaking in clean energy technologies. Compared to conventional hydrogen production methods, natural hydrogen could significantly reduce the energy sector's carbon footprint. The research results demonstrate Western Australia's geological structure may play a pivotal role in shaping the world's energy future. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/08/260829035214.htm — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._