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PhD Dissertation Proposal Defense - Environmental Science & Policy
Apr 4, 2024, 2:00 - 4:00 PM
Virtually on Zoom - email espgrad@gmu.edu for Zoom meeting info
PhD Dissertation Proposal
Department of Environmental Science and Policy
College of Science
George Mason University
Candidate: Joao S. Gallotti
Defense Date and Time: April 4, 2024 at 2:00pm
Defense Location: Virtually on Zoom
Title: Geochemical and microbial-induced reactions associated with hydrogen (H2) storage in sandstones of Illinois Basin, USA: a modeling investigation
Dissertation Director: Dr. Linda Hinnov
Committee: Dr. Brittany Hupp, Dr. Jennifer Salerno, and Dr. Marc Buursink
ABSTRACT
Underground Hydrogen Storage (UHS) is gaining prominence due to its potential to expedite decarbonization of global economies and enhance reliability of intermittent renewable energy sources (i.e., solar and wind). Surplus electricity can be converted into H2 via electrolysis and stored underground until energy demand surges. Saline aquifers and depleted hydrocarbon reservoirs are UHS targets, but research is required to understand the interaction of H2 with geologic materials. Here, the objectives are to develop models to characterize H2-consuming reactions catalyzed by microbial processes, determine the potential for mineral dissolution and precipitation, and assess H2 reactivity as it diffuses through brine-saturated sandstone.