NGK INSULATORS and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) will develop jointly a hydrogen purification system that uses membrane separation to purify hydrogen-nitrogen mixture gas after ammonia cracking.

The companies expect the technology to contribute to the establishment of a hydrogen and ammonia supply chain enabling high-volume transport.

This joint project aims to build an optimal system for purifying hydrogen using membrane separation from the mixed gas of hydrogen and nitrogen generated during the cracking of ammonia. MHI will contribute its significant global expertise delivering ammonia plants and other chemical plants, and its technologies for handling ammonia and hydrogen. NGK will contribute its deep knowledge of sub nano ceramic membrane technology and unique film deposition technology developed in the fields of chemical processes and water purification.

MHI and NGK say they are committed to driving the development forward, aiming to achieve early commercialization.

Ammonia is garnering attention today as a hydrogen carrier that enables safe transport and storage of hydrogen, a fuel that emits no CO₂ when combusted, in large volumes over great distances. Plans to establish supply chains are underway worldwide, notably in Europe, while in Japan a “Fuel Ammonia Supply Chain Establishment” project is in progress. This market is expected to grow in the years ahead.

MHI Group is pursuing a growth strategy in the area of Energy Transition, aiming for decarbonization on the energy supply side to support its goal of achieving Carbon Neutrality by 2040. NGK Group has formulated a Carbon Neutrality Strategic Roadmap consisting of four strategies to contribute to the realization of a carbon-neutral society and promoting the development and provision of hydrogen and Carbon dioxide Capture, Utilization and Storage (CCUS) related technologies, and products.