Fundamental Research

Improving our understanding of underground biogeochemistry

In the context of the energy transition, it is vital to study underground biogeochemical cycles given the pivotal role they play in H2 storage, geothermal energy, the extraction of critical metals and CO2 burial. Resident microbial communities have a significant influence on these environments, modifying permeability, for example, and rendering geothermal energy, gas storage and other such operations complex. Their metabolic activity can also cause damage, notably by corroding infrastructure and producing hydrogen sulfide.