MHI, Nippon Shokubai to set up ammonia cracking system

Japanese companies Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) and Nippon Shokubai have teamed up to jointly develop an ammonia cracking system, the companies announced on August 21. This partnership aims to establish a hydrogen and ammonia supply chain that facilitates efficient and high-volume transportation.

Ammonia is emerging as a hydrogen carrier, enabling secure transportation and storage of hydrogen—a zero-emission fuel—over long distances. As global efforts to establish supply chains gain traction, particularly in Europe and Japan, the market for ammonia is projected to grow significantly in the coming years, the companies said.

The process of ammonia cracking is essential for extracting hydrogen from ammonia, making it a critical component of supply chain infrastructure. MHI will utilise its expertise in delivering ammonia and chemical plants, along with its proficiency in handling ammonia and hydrogen. Meanwhile, Nippon Shokubai's will utilise its experience in catalyst development.

MHI Group is pursuing a growth strategy in the area of energy transition, aiming for decarbonisation on the energy supply side to support the company's goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2040. Nippon Shokubai's focus lies in advancing the prevalence of ammonia and hydrogen, alongside the promotion of the development and implementation of ammonia cracking catalysts.