Teststand für Ammoniak-Craccker in großem Labor

NH3-HRS – Development of a Scalable Ammonia Cracker Module for the Production of High-Purity Hydrogen for Hydrogen Refueling Stations

The NH3-HRS project is developing a compact system that converts ammonia directly into high-purity hydrogen at hydrogen refueling stations.

Future hydrogen demand in North Rhine-Westphalia will significantly exceed domestic production capacity. NH3-HRS is therefore developing a flexible solution that will allow imported hydrogen in the form of ammonia to be utilised for decentralised applications as well.

Decentralised Hydrogen Production from Ammonia

Ammonia is relatively easy to transport and store and is therefore considered an important hydrogen carrier. However, for decentralised applications such as hydrogen refueling stations, there is currently a lack of compact, efficient, and commercially available systems that convert ammonia into hydrogen on site.

The project involves the development and demonstration of a fuel-gas-heated cracker-membrane module with an output of 50 kilowatts and a production capacity of up to 1.5 kilograms of hydrogen per hour. The ammonia cracker breaks down ammonia into hydrogen and nitrogen. A membrane then separates the hydrogen and ensures the purity required for the hydrogen refueling station.

Teil eines Teststands für Ammoniak-Anwendungen

Cracker, membrane, and burner as a complete system

One focus is on the development of an ammonia-compatible low-gas burner that provides the heat required for the cracking process. The cracker, membrane, and burner are technically coordinated and tested under real operating conditions.

The analysis covers, among other things, efficiency, dynamics, emissions, hydrogen purity, and scalability. Simulation models support the development of optimal operating strategies and are validated using the test results. The goal is to develop a modular technology that can be adapted in the future to meet varying hydrogen demands and support decentralised supply structures.

ZBT Laboratory Ammonia Cracker Plant Camp Fire Project

Project information

  • Project Acronym: NH3-HRS

  • Project Title: Development of a Scalable Ammonia Cracker Module for the Production of High-Purity Hydrogen for Hydrogen Refueling Stations

  • Duration: April 2026 through September 2029

  • Grant Reference Number: EFRE-20802113

  • Total grant amount / ZBT share: €1,369,064 / €895,990

  • Project partners:

This project is funded by the European Union.

European Union ERDF/JTF NRW funding logo

Contact

Dr. Lena Engelmeier