HyTerra (HYT ASX) has confirmed one of the world’s highest recorded natural hydrogen concentrations. Air-corrected lab results from the Sue Duroche 3 well in Kansas show up to 96.1% hydrogen—a major breakthrough for the company’s 12-month exploration campaign at its 100%-owned Nemaha Project. Isotech Laboratories verified the results, strengthening HyTerra’s position as a potential first-mover in the emerging natural (or “white”) hydrogen sector.
These findings confirm earlier data from the nearby Sue Duroche 2 well, drilled in 2009, which recorded up to 92% hydrogen. In addition, deeper sections of Sue Duroche 3 revealed elevated helium traces, hinting at a possible by-product revenue stream.
HyTerra drilled Sue Duroche 3 to a depth of 1,052 metres—on time, on budget, and without any health, safety, or environmental incidents. The well intersected more than 700 metres of Pre-Cambrian basement rock, which is considered highly prospective for hydrogen accumulation.
High-Quality Reservoir Potential Emerges
Initial reservoir analysis by Schlumberger points to matrix porosity, dolomitization, and natural fracturing—features that suggest the rock could allow hydrogen to move and be stored. Full lab results on the remaining mud gas samples are still pending, with more updates expected in the coming weeks.
Next, the company plans to re-enter the Sue Duroche 3 well for downhole gas sampling and extended flow testing. These steps are critical to confirming hydrogen purity, flow rates, and commercial potential. Meanwhile, HyTerra is preparing to mobilize Murfin Rig 116 to drill Blythe 13-20, the second well in its 2025 campaign. Fortescue Future Industries Technologies is providing funding support for the broader program.
Momentum Builds Ahead of Next Drill
Natural hydrogen is drawing increasing interest as a clean and low-cost alternative to synthetic hydrogen, which requires energy-intensive production. HyTerra’s Kansas location also offers strategic advantages, thanks to its proximity to U.S. industrial hubs and existing energy infrastructure.
Executive Director Benjamin Mee called the findings “a great start” and credited strong local collaboration for the early success. He emphasized HyTerra’s commitment to leading natural hydrogen development efforts in the United States.
All eyes now turn to Blythe 13-20, scheduled to spud in mid-May.
A snapshot of Hyterra (ASX HYT can be found here at the ASX website.
