A breakthrough onboard technology by H2SITE has received Approval in Principle (AiP) from Lloyd’s Register (LR), marking a significant milestone in the maritime industry’s transition to cleaner energy sources. The AMMONIA to H2POWER system utilizes ammonia cracking to produce high-quality hydrogen that can power fuel cells or be used directly in internal combustion engines.
Ammonia cracking has emerged as a promising method for onboard hydrogen storage, and H2SITE’s innovative solution leverages hydrogen-selective membranes to overcome the thermodynamic challenges of the cracking process. By continuously recovering hydrogen, the system achieves near-complete ammonia conversion and higher efficiencies at lower temperatures, resulting in reduced energy consumption and a smaller footprint.
LR’s evaluation of the design and arrangement included a comprehensive analysis of fundamental aspects, ensuring compliance with rules and regulations for ships employing low-flashpoint fuels. A thorough risk assessment was conducted to address safety concerns associated with ammonia and hydrogen use, in accordance with LR’s ShipRight Procedure for Risk-Based Certification.
H2SITE successfully demonstrated the AMMONIA to H2POWER technology onboard the Zumaia Offshore’s Bertha B vessel, validating its performance in real-world offshore conditions. Jose Medrano, Technical Director at H2SITE, expressed pride in the achievement, highlighting the technology’s potential for decarbonizing maritime applications. The company intends to scale up production and design MW-scale units for integration into various vessels, including offshore platforms, tankers, and gas carriers.
Mark Darley, Chief Operations Officer at Lloyd’s Register, recognized the transformative impact of H2SITE’s technology, stating that it offers shipowners the opportunity to convert ammonia and other feedstocks to hydrogen without additional gas separation technology. He emphasized LR’s commitment to collaborating with the maritime industry to provide zero-emission power solutions towards a greener and more sustainable future.
H2SITE, founded in 2020, specializes in reactors and separators for hydrogen conversion from various feedstocks such as ammonia, methanol, and synthetic gas. Additionally, the company develops hydrogen separation technologies for applications in salt caverns or geologic hydrogen storage.
As trusted maritime advisors, Lloyd’s Register is a globally recognized professional services group focused on marine engineering and technology. With over 260 years of experience in setting and improving safety standards, LR is dedicated to driving performance and ensuring compliance in the marine and offshore industries. Their digital solutions are relied upon by thousands of vessels worldwide, supporting the transition to a safe and sustainable maritime energy landscape.
In conclusion, H2SITE’s AMMONIA to H2POWER technology, backed by Lloyd’s Register’s Approval in Principle, paves the way for a greener and more efficient future in the maritime sector. By converting ammonia into hydrogen using cutting-edge membrane reactors, this technology has the potential to significantly reduce emissions and contribute to a more sustainable shipping industry.
Revolutionary Technology Converts Ammonia into Hydrogen for Clean Energy Onboard Vessels
In addition to the information provided in the article, it is important to highlight some current market trends related to clean energy onboard vessels. The maritime industry is under increasing pressure to reduce its environmental footprint and comply with stricter emission regulations. As a result, there is a growing demand for innovative technologies that enable the use of cleaner fuels and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The use of hydrogen as a fuel source is gaining traction in the maritime sector due to its high energy density and zero-emission properties when used in fuel cells. However, the storage and production of hydrogen onboard vessels pose significant challenges. Traditional methods of hydrogen production, such as steam methane reforming, are not feasible in a marine environment due to safety concerns.
This is where ammonia cracking technology, such as H2SITE’s AMMONIA to H2POWER system, comes into play. By converting ammonia into hydrogen onboard vessels, this technology offers a viable solution for clean energy production. It eliminates the need for additional gas separation technology, making it a more efficient and cost-effective option.
The global market for ammonia cracking technology is expected to witness substantial growth in the coming years. According to a report by Grand View Research, the market for ammonia cracking catalysts is projected to reach $194.3 million by 2026, with a compound annual growth rate of 8.1% during the forecast period.
However, there are some key challenges and controversies associated with the use of ammonia as a feedstock for hydrogen production. One of the main challenges is the safe handling and storage of ammonia, which is highly toxic and can be hazardous if not handled properly. To ensure safe operations, rigorous risk assessments and compliance with regulations, such as LR’s ShipRight Procedure for Risk-Based Certification, are essential.
Another controversy surrounding ammonia as a feedstock is its carbon footprint. While ammonia itself does not produce carbon emissions when used as a fuel, the production of ammonia typically relies on natural gas, which does release greenhouse gases. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the ammonia used for hydrogen production comes from sustainable and low-carbon sources.
Overall, the use of revolutionary technology like H2SITE’s AMMONIA to H2POWER system holds great promise for the maritime industry in terms of reducing emissions and transitioning to cleaner energy sources. It addresses the pressing need for more efficient and sustainable power solutions in the shipping sector, contributing to a greener and more sustainable future.
For more information on hydrogen technologies and its applications in the maritime industry, you can visit Lloyd’s Register’s website: Lloyd’s Register.
You can also learn more about H2SITE and their innovative solutions for hydrogen conversion from various feedstocks on their official website: H2SITE.