Air Liquide is joining forces with KBR to provide fully integrated low-carbon ammonia solutions based on Autothermal Reforming (ATR) technology.
As the world leader in ATR technology, Air Liquide specializes in large-scale production of low-carbon hydrogen (H(2)), which is subsequently combined with nitrogen (N(2)) to yield low-carbon ammonia (NH(3)). This collaboration with KBR, the frontrunner in ammonia technology, not only promises efficient ammonia production but also bolsters the development of a global low-carbon hydrogen market, as ammonia can be effectively transported over long distances.
The partnership brings together Air Liquide’s unique and proprietary expertise in Autothermal Reformer (ATR) technology and KBR’s mastery in ammonia production. With nearly seven decades of experience, Air Liquide has established itself as a leader in oxygen-based ATR technology. Concurrently, KBR boasts a strong track record, having licensed, engineered, or constructed over 250 grassroot ammonia plants worldwide since 1943. The integration of Air Liquide and KBR solutions facilitates outstanding energy efficiency and world-leading reliability during the production process, while also enabling a carbon capture rate of up to 99% in highly integrated industrial facilities when coupled with carbon capture technology.
The global ammonia market has witnessed impressive growth, reaching approximately 78 billion US dollars in 2022 and projected to surpass 129 billion US dollars by 2030. With an average annual growth rate of 6.5% between 2022 and 2030, as reported by Precedence Research(1), ammonia’s prominence as a fertilizer for agriculture remains significant.
Beyond immediate ammonia production, Air Liquide and KBR’s collaboration has broader implications for the energy transition. Ammonia’s exceptional transportability over long distances is leveraged to develop a global supply chain infrastructure, which is already in place for its large-scale production, transportation, and utilization. Importantly, ammonia can be converted back into hydrogen at the point of use, presenting an innovative approach to decarbonizing industries and transportation. As part of this long-term vision, Air Liquide announced the construction of an industrial-scale ammonia cracking pilot plant in Antwerp, Belgium, scheduled for March 2023. Through this innovative plant, ammonia can be converted into hydrogen with an optimized carbon footprint, further advancing sustainable practices.
