MIT researchers have developed a groundbreaking method to produce hydrogen with minimal emissions and costs by utilizing the aluminum-water reaction. This process, known as the aluminum-seawater reaction (AWR), involves recycled aluminum, waste heat utilization, and alloy recovery to generate hydrogen at just 1.45 kg CO₂ equivalent per kilogram of hydrogen produced. The innovation addresses the current challenges of high carbon emissions and costs associated with traditional hydrogen production methods. Lead author Aly Kombargi highlighted aluminum's potential as a clean energy source, presenting a scalable pathway for low-emission hydrogen deployment in transportation and remote energy systems. The team found a solution to aluminum's natural resistance to reacting with water by using gallium-indium, enabling the production of pure hydrogen when mixed with seawater. This method not only reduces carbon emissions but also creates a sustainable cycle for continuous hydrogen production by recovering and reusing gallium-indium. The thorough life cycle assessment conducted by the researchers revealed that this approach substantially lowers emissions and costs compared to fossil-fuel-based methods. The sustainable system offers a cost-effective production technique, aligning with the prices of hydrogen generated from wind and solar technologies. By envisioning a commercial-scale production system using recycled aluminum and seawater, the researchers aim to provide a competitive and scalable alternative for green energy. The process involves treating aluminum pellets with gallium-indium, which are then mixed with saltwater at fuel stations near seawater sources to produce clean hydrogen. Additionally, the byproduct, boehmite, can be sold to further reduce costs, enhancing the system's economic viability and environmental sustainability. The research published in Cell Reports Sustainability demonstrates the potential for a more sustainable and cost-efficient approach to hydrogen production.