Revolutionary Method Turns Natural Gas into Clean Hydrogen
A U.S. startup has developed a technology that produces emissions-free hydrogen so cheaply it could be given away, while also generating valuable byproducts.
Hydrogen plays a central role in the green transition, but its production is often energy-intensive and associated with significant CO₂ emissions. A new technology from the American company H Quest, however, could change the game. The company has developed a method to convert natural gas into hydrogen without emitting CO₂.
How the Technology Works
The process uses electricity to generate microwaves that transform natural gas into a plasma state. In this state, hydrogen atoms are separated from the gas, resulting in hydrogen and solid carbon. The carbon can then be used to create high-demand materials like graphene and carbon fibers, which are widely used in electronics, aviation, and durable composites.
According to H Quest, this method requires four times less energy than green hydrogen production, which splits water molecules via electrolysis. The low energy demand and valuable byproducts make it possible to produce hydrogen so affordably that it could be distributed for free.
Breakthrough: Carbon-Free Hydrogen Production
Traditional hydrogen production relies on steam reforming, which generates significant CO₂ emissions—up to 12 tons of CO₂ for every ton of hydrogen produced. H Quest’s process eliminates CO₂ emissions entirely, as it operates without oxygen.
In addition to capturing CO₂ from natural gas, H Quest has succeeded in creating high-quality byproducts.
Future Potential of the Technology
H Quest’s microwave plasma technology is a cost-effective method for pursuing sustainable and green solutions. The technology is also highly scalable. If widely implemented, it could reduce reliance on fossil fuels while opening new markets for advanced materials.
