JM and thyssenkrupp Collaborate for Low-Carbon Ammonia Solution

Johnson Matthey and thyssenkrupp Uhde Partner to Provide Innovative Low-Carbon Ammonia Solution

Johnson Matthey (JM) and thyssenkrupp Uhde have solidified their collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to offer a cutting-edge low-carbon ammonia solution. This strategic move aims to capitalize on the combined knowledge and proficiency of the two companies in sustainable technologies and ammonia production. The collaboration incorporates Uhde's ammonia process with JM's LCHTM technology, thereby facilitating the production of blue ammonia with exceptional CO2 capture rates. The primary objective is to tackle the projected upsurge in global ammonia demand, particularly in the shipping and power generation sectors. It is estimated that low-carbon ammonia will constitute two-thirds of this demand by 2050. Through this partnership, JM and thyssenkrupp Uhde endeavor to satisfy the requirements of the power, shipping, and global industrial sectors, while also contributing significantly to global decarbonization initiatives.

Key Takeaways

• Johnson Matthey (JM) and thyssenkrupp Uhde enter into a collaboration to provide a fully integrated low-carbon ammonia solution.
• The role of ammonia has expanded from its traditional usage in fertilizer production to serving as a decarbonized carrier and hydrogen energy supplier.
• This partnership integrates Uhde's ammonia process with JM's LCHTM technology to produce blue ammonia with an outstanding 99% CO2 capture rate.
• thyssenkrupp Uhde boasts a robust presence in the ammonia industry, with over 130 licensed plants, while JM's LCHTM technology has been chosen for significant blue hydrogen projects.
• The global demand for ammonia is projected to reach 600 million metric tonnes by 2050, with low-carbon ammonia expected to account for two-thirds of this demand, potentially creating a substantial $200 billion market.

Analysis

This collaboration between Johnson Matthey and thyssenkrupp Uhde is a significant step in addressing the escalating demand for low-carbon ammonia, particularly in the shipping and power generation sectors. The integration of Uhde's ammonia process with JM's LCHTM technology will enable the achievement of high CO2 capture rates, consequently contributing significantly to global decarbonization efforts. Companies operating in the power, shipping, and industrial sectors that rely on ammonia will benefit greatly from this development. Moreover, this partnership could positively impact financial institutions that are actively investing in sustainable technologies. In the short term, an increase in the production of blue ammonia is anticipated. Looking ahead, this collaboration has the potential to create a $200 billion market for low-carbon ammonia by 2050, potentially influencing competitors to follow suit. Countries with stringent emission regulations are especially poised to benefit from this pivotal development.

Did You Know?

• Low-carbon Ammonia Solution: This denotes a method of producing ammonia with significantly reduced greenhouse gas emissions. In this context, Johnson Matthey (JM) and thyssenkrupp Uhde will amalgamate their technologies to create blue ammonia, capable of capturing up to 99% of CO2 during production. This holds great significance for decarbonization efforts, considering that ammonia production typically results in substantial CO2 emissions.
• LCHTM Technology: The Licensed Circulating Hydrocracking Mild Temperature technology, developed by Johnson Matthey, constitutes a pivotal component in this collaboration. The LCHTM technology enables the production of blue hydrogen, which is then integrated with thyssenkrupp Uhde's ammonia process to yield blue ammonia. This technology has been selected for major blue hydrogen projects, underscoring its significance and potential impact on the energy sector.
• $200 Billion Market: The projection of a $200 billion market for low-carbon ammonia by 2050 represents a momentous growth prospect. With global ammonia demand expected to surge to 600 million metric tonnes by 2050, it is foreseen that low-carbon ammonia will constitute two-thirds of this demand. This presents a colossal market opportunity for companies like JM and thyssenkrupp Uhde that are investing in low-carbon ammonia production technologies.