Bimetallic catalysts for decomposition of ammonia (a hydrogen carrier) to produce high purity hydrogen

Hydrogen is considered as the fuel for future. It addresses the issues related to direct combustion of fossil fuels. However, the distribution of hydrogen is the key challenge for its widespread implementation. In this regard, ammonia can be a hydrogen carrier as it satisfies the desired requirements - high energy density, environmental benign and energy efficient. Ammonia production is matured technology - can produce ammonia cheaply using natural gas or renewable sources. However, the decomposition/cracking of ammonia into hydrogen (and nitrogen) is a high temperature process, which requires further advancement for widespread applications. To achieve the above-mentioned goals, the proposed research considers developing an efficient catalyst that can provide high ammonia decomposition rate at lower temperature. In this regards, supported transition metals and/or with a small amount of ruthenium based bimetallic catalysts will be investigated. More focus will be dedicated to develop an efficient catalyst synthesis technique that would provide high metal dispersion with desired metal support interactions. Systematic microstructural characterization will be conducted to understand the structure and behaviour of the catalysts. Fixed and fluidized reactors will be employed for testing the activity of the synthesized catalysts. By designing and employing such a systematic protocol - it is expected that valuable insight of the highly active catalysts could be gained. The obtained knowledge and expertise will be useful for attracting clients like Saudi Aramco, SABIC, Air Products to support KFUPM for further development of this important technology. It is envisaged that the present technology of ammonia carried hydrogen will open a new gateway of utilizing the huge natural gas reserves in the Kingdom. The implementation of this technology is also expected to generate jobs and KSA can take the lead in research and development in delivering blue hydrogen in the global market - KSA vision 2030. The outcome of the research will be published in high ranked journals and conferences. The intellectual property shall be protected through DTV-KFUPM. In this process, HQP will also be trained who can further contribute to the implementation of this important technology