The U.S. Army has partnered with Georgia Tech to develop hydrogen energy from aluminum scrap, leveraging an Army Research Laboratory discovery that aluminum-based powder can prompt hydrogen to split from water. The project, funded with $20 million by the Army Research Office, aims to create a scalable and efficient method for transforming aluminum waste into a clean and cost-effective energy source. Led by Professor Aaron Stebner and Scott McWhorter, the team includes researchers from various institutions to develop innovative manufacturing processes that could revolutionize energy production. The team plans to experiment with aluminum's material properties to create a highly effective reaction that can produce low-cost hydrogen. By optimizing manufacturing processes and developing automated methods for safely producing and storing stable aluminum, they aim to enable convenient on-site energy generation using small modular technologies. These technologies could potentially be powered by solar panels, offering a sustainable and efficient approach to energy production. The project also intends to test the efficacy of the developed processes by generating power for rural Georgia communities, showcasing the technology's potential for off-grid scenarios and military deployments. The ability to use floodwater and scrap aluminum to produce hydrogen presents a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels and could address energy disruptions during emergencies or natural disasters. Overall, the partnership between Georgia Tech and the U.S. Army represents a significant step towards transforming waste materials into a valuable energy source, with the potential for wide-ranging applications in both military and civilian settings.