HyTerra Hits 96.1% Hydrogen in Sue Duroche 3 Well, Validating Kansas Play

HyTerra’s Breakthrough in Natural Hydrogen Exploration

HyTerra Limited (ASX:HYT) has announced a significant milestone in its quest to unlock natural hydrogen resources with the Sue Duroche 3 well in Kansas delivering hydrogen concentrations as high as 96.1%. This result, independently verified by Isotech Laboratories, not only surpasses many previous exploration benchmarks but also validates historical data from the nearby Sue Duroche 2 well drilled in 2009, which recorded hydrogen levels up to 92%.

The well was drilled to a depth of 1,052 meters (3,453 feet) through sedimentary layers and the Pre-Cambrian basement, employing a comprehensive formation evaluation program by Schlumberger. Real-time mud gas logging during drilling revealed multiple intervals of elevated hydrogen, alongside notable helium readings deeper in the basement rock. These findings suggest a promising natural hydrogen and helium play within the Nemaha Project area.

Operational Success and Rigorous Data Collection

Executed on time and within budget, the Sue Duroche 3 drilling campaign was completed without any health, safety, or environmental incidents, underscoring HyTerra’s operational discipline. The company’s methodical approach included collecting mud gas samples at surface, wireline logging, rotary side-wall coring, and downhole water sampling to calibrate petrophysical analyses. Early laboratory results have been fast-tracked, with further samples en route for independent verification.

Expert consultants analyzing wireline logs have identified potential reservoir zones characterized by matrix porosity, dolomitization, and fractures, key features that could enhance hydrogen storage and flow. These geological insights will feed into an evolving subsurface model to better understand the resource potential.

Next Steps in Exploration and Commercial Assessment

Looking ahead, HyTerra plans to re-enter the Sue Duroche 3 wellbore for downhole sampling and gas monitoring to confirm gas composition and purity. Extended well testing will be critical to evaluate reservoir productivity, volume, and commercial viability. Meanwhile, the Murfin Rig 116 is preparing to mobilize to the Blythe 13-20 well site, with drilling expected to commence by mid-May 2025.

Funded by a recent investment from Fortescue Future Industries Technologies Pty Ltd, HyTerra’s 12-month exploration program aims to systematically assess the natural hydrogen potential across its 100% owned leases in Kansas. The company is positioning itself at the forefront of the emerging white hydrogen sector, which promises lower production costs and carbon emissions compared to conventional hydrogen.

Executive Director Benjamin Mee highlighted the significance of these early results, stating that achieving some of the highest hydrogen concentrations ever recorded in a first well is an encouraging start. He emphasized the importance of collaboration with local contractors and the company’s commitment to innovative techniques to unlock natural hydrogen adjacent to key industrial markets.