Optimizing Helium Exploration: Noble Gas Isotopes as Probes for Migration–Enrichment Processes

Helium, as a strategic resource with broad applications in industry and science, has drawn increasing global attention due to its scarcity and non-renewable nature. Noble gas isotopes, especially those of helium, neon, and argon, provide unique geochemical tracers for understanding helium genesis, migration, and accumulation. This short review summarizes recent advances in the application of noble gas isotope techniques to helium resource research. It covers (1) the fundamental isotope systematics and transport mechanisms, (2) key analytical methods for gas extraction and measurement, and (3) typical case studies illustrating helium source identification and reservoir evaluation. In particular, we highlight three emerging trends: (i) field-adaptable analytical protocols for diverse geological samples, (ii) diffusion models incorporating nanoscale confinement effects, and (iii) isotopic ratio-based frameworks for guiding helium exploration strategies. These integrative approaches offer new insights into the “carrier–pathway–trap” paradigm in helium migration systems and support more effective helium resource assessment.