An integrated tectono-stratigraphic and petrological reassessment of the Vardar and Pindos ophiolite system and its significance for H2 exploration

Native hydrogen (H₂) generated by the serpentinization of ultramafic rocks represents a promising clean energy resource, creating significant interest in the exploration of the Balkan ophiolite belts. However, the assessment and quantification of the H₂ potential are limited by the high variability and complexity of the Balkan ophiolites. Conflicting geodynamic models shifting between scenarios of isolated multiple basins and a single Neo-Tethyan ocean with hyperextended margins result in persistent uncertainties in the evaluation of the H₂ potential. Since mantle fertility, fracturing, and hydration styles vary considerably among different scenarios, understanding the primary geodynamic context, i.e., the “tectonic kitchen”, is essential for predicting H₂ potential.

The aim of our study is to establish an integrated tectono-stratigraphic and petrological framework using the Vardar and Pindos ophiolite systems in Albania as key case study. A complete multi-criteria discrimination matrix was therefore developed, incorporating sedimentary budgets, basement architectures, magmatic systems and hydration types. This matrix allows for the distinction of ophiolitic environments by discriminating between Ocean-Continent Transitions (OCT), Mid-Ocean Ridges (MOR), Supra-Subduction Zones (SSZ), and Back-Arc Basins (BAB) using raw field data rather than pre-existing models.

These preliminary results help resolve local paleogeographic uncertainties and define the system’s initial conditions, setting the foundation for a thesis project dedicated to the characterization of mantle fertility, fracturing, and serpentinization dynamics. It will use these provenance data to decipher the variability of Tethyan ophiolites and thus establish a precise link between the characteristics of the mantle source rock, its geodynamic context allowing for the prediction and quantification of the potential for natural hydrogen.