Bilbao, Spain based company H2Site reports that it has successfully validated the first ammonia cracker to produce high-purity hydrogen for onboard power generation using a PEM fuel cell.
An integrated membrane reactor has been installed and operated on board of the Bertha B supply ship, owned by Zumaia Offshore and operating in the Gulf of Biscay.
Ammonia cracking is said to be gaining traction as a potential hydrogen carrier for onboard applications. It can be used directly in engines, or it can be cracked into hydrogen and used in fuel cells. Before hydrogen is used, purification is necessary, especially if traces of ammonia are present.
H2Site’s membrane reactors are said to ensure all the ammonia is transformed, while delivering high purity hydrogen gas to the fuel cell in a single process step. While sailing, as part of the H2Ocean project, H2Site’s cracker has successfully powered the ship’s auxiliary services. This achievement was made possible thanks to the collaboration with other companies active in the maritime decarbonisation sector such as vessel owner Zumaia Offshore, Erhardt Offshore, Ajusa, and Tecnalia, along with the participation of Enagas and ABS.
Jose Medrano, Technical Director H2Site said: “Our innovative membrane reactor technology not only brings an improvement in system efficiency but also reduces the footprint of the installation. This is especially important in applications where space is limited, such as onboard a vessel. We have focused our design efforts on minimising the ammonia consumption, which will be key for the scale-up to suit higher power output units”.
