Precious-metal-free catalysts for the energy-efficient recovery of hydrogen from ammonia as a greenhouse gas-neutral hydrogen and energy storage solution

The transformation of the chemical industry toward a carbon-neutral hydrogen economy requires efficient and sustainable technologies for storing and supplying hydrogen. Ammonia is considered a particularly promising hydrogen carrier because it is carbon-free and can be stored and transported with relative ease. However, a key challenge is the energy-efficient recovery of hydrogen through thermal NH3 cracking. Currently, ruthenium or nickel catalysts are being investigated primarily for this purpose, as they enable high conversion rates at moderate temperatures. However, these systems are costly, rely on scarce raw materials, or raise toxicological concerns. Against the backdrop of increasing demands for resource efficiency and strategic independence within the framework of national and European hydrogen strategies, the development of EM-free alternatives is becoming increasingly important.
The research project therefore aims to systematically develop EM-free catalyst systems for NH3 cracking. The focus is on the rational design of materials based on non-precious metal components, whose physicochemical properties are specifically varied. Another key focus is on investigating deactivation effects and developing suitable stabilization strategies for industrial use. In addition, a reaction engineering and techno-economic evaluation of the developed systems will be conducted to ensure their transferability to practical applications.
The results provide the scientific basis for a new generation of cost-effective, toxicologically safe catalysts and, in particular, strengthen small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the plant and mechanical engineering sectors. In this way, the project contributes to Germany’s technological sovereignty, the establishment of a sustainable value chain, and long-term competitiveness in the field of NH3-based H2 systems.

We are seeking to launch a research project under the IGF. The proposal has been submitted for review.