UNIVERSITE DE PAU ET DES PAYS DE L'ADOUR

About

Team members

Alejandra C.

PhD student researcher

Keanu L.

Research

Gabriel P.

Chercheur postdoctoral

Anthony R.

November 26, 2024 - 09h00 - 10h00
What is happening in Middle East? - Exploration for natural hydrogen in the northern semail ophiolite: a case study in the emirate of ras al khaimah, uae
The Semail Ophiolite, renowned for its exceptional preservation, provides a rare geological snapshot of oceanic lithosphere rocks at the surface. Extensive studies in the southern region, particularly within the Sultanate of Oman, have shed light on active serpentinization processes and the associated natural hydrogen (H2) production. However, the northern section of the ophiolite remains underexplored. This study aims to fill this knowledge gap by investigating the potential for Natural H2 resources in Ras Al Khaimah and in the Northern UAE. Our research involved comprehensive surface gas measurements to construct an H2 distribution map, examining the correlation between gas emissions and lithological variations from the metamorphic sole to various mantle peridotites and crustal upper gabbros. Major structural features were also assessed. Findings indicate that structural windows exposing the metamorphic sole are key areas for locating higher H2 concentration measurements. Additionally, prominent structural lineaments between the layered and upper gabbros represent potential migration pathways for H2 from the underlying peridotites. Sampling of gas bubbling zones provided encouraging outcomes, mirroring results observed in the blue pools in the southern massifs of the ophiolite. Repetitive samplings on the same area over periods of time reveal large variations in gas readings that require further evaluation. These new measurements emphasize the northern Semail Ophiolite's potential as a valuable natural H2 province, highlighting its importance for future energy exploration and exploitation in Ras Al Khaimah and in the Northern UAE.Co-auteur : Gabriel Pasquet, Keanu Loiseau, Mohamed Diatta, Giacomo Firpo, Paul Swire, Andrew Amey, Thibaut Burckhart, Isabelle Moretti
60 MIN