Air Liquide Converts Ammonia to Hydrogen at Industrial Scale

Ammonia Cracking Pilot Unit

Air Liquide has launched the first industrial-scale ammonia cracking pilot unit at the Port of Antwerp-Bruges, Belgium. This facility can convert 30 tons of ammonia into hydrogen per day, marking a significant advancement in hydrogen transportation technology.

Hydrogen Transportation Challenges

Transporting hydrogen efficiently over long distances remains a challenge for the global hydrogen economy. Ammonia, composed of hydrogen and nitrogen, serves as a valuable hydrogen carrier. It can be produced cost-effectively in regions with abundant renewable energy and transported globally using existing infrastructure.

Technological Innovations

The new ammonia cracking technology enhances Air Liquide's capabilities in low-carbon and renewable hydrogen production. Key innovations include advancements in process safety, material testing, catalysis for ammonia cracking, ammonia combustion, and molecule separation. These developments demonstrate Air Liquide's ability to scale technologies from research to industrial applications.

Government Support

The pilot plant has received support from the Flemish Government through VLAIO (Flemish Agency for Innovation and Entrepreneurship), highlighting the collaborative effort to advance hydrogen technology and contribute to the energy transition.