Approval in Principle
DNV has granted an Approval in Principle (AiP) to Hycamite for its innovative pre-combustion carbon capture system. This system is designed to produce hydrogen from LNG onboard ships using Hycamite's Thermo-Catalytic Decomposition (TCD) technology.
Technology Overview
Hycamite's TCD technology offers a novel method for generating clean hydrogen by decomposing methane, the main component of LNG, into hydrogen gas and solid carbon. This process operates in an oxygen-free environment, utilizing heat and recyclable catalysts, resulting in zero CO₂ emissions. The solid carbon byproducts, such as graphite and carbon nanofibers, are valuable and can be stored onboard.
Maritime Application
This technology addresses decarbonization challenges in maritime transport by enabling hydrogen use on larger LNG-powered vessels. The onboard system converts LNG into hydrogen during operation, providing a clean fuel source for dual-fuel engines or fuel cells. It eliminates the need for liquid hydrogen infrastructure and significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Using biomethane as fuel could potentially make the operation carbon negative.
Industry Impact
This breakthrough technology has the potential to reshape shipping by facilitating onboard hydrogen generation from LNG without requiring new fueling infrastructure. By capturing carbon in solid form, it supports a circular carbon economy at sea, offering a practical path to decarbonize LNG-powered vessels and reduce emissions across global fleets.
