Ammonia production is a major contributor to global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, accounting for around 2% worldwide. This is because conventional “gray” ammonia is made from carbon sources, like natural gas and coal.
In contrast, green ammonia is produced from renewable energy, water and air-captured nitrogen, so in the best case there are no CO2 emissions. By transitioning to carbon-free green ammonia production, we can significantly reduce the environmental impact of a base chemical needed for vital applications, such as fertilizer production.
Green ammonia: the sustainable fuel powering the energy transition
In addition to its traditional uses, green ammonia promises to be a game-changer in the decarbonization of the energy industry. It produces no carbon dioxide when burned, making it an ideal clean fuel for shipping, and heavy road transport.
Ammonia is also a highly efficient hydrogen carrier. Thanks to its chemical composition and high energy density, ammonia can transport hydrogen over long distances via existing infrastructure from renewable energy hubs to points of use.
With versatile applications in transportation, power and hydrogen supply, green ammonia is expected to play a critical role in the world’s energy transition.
Solving challenges in green ammonia production
The transition to green ammonia faces initial challenges, such as higher upfront costs compared to conventional gray or blue ammonia production, and fluctuating feed conditions due to the intermittent availability of renewable energy. Therefore, a catalyst that can optimize efficiency and overcome challenging process conditions, including exposure to oxygenates, is essential for reliable, cost-effective green ammonia production.
By offering innovative catalyst solutions tailored to the use of renewable hydrogen, Clariant can unlock the full potential of green ammonia and accelerate the transition to carbon-free fuel supply and sustainable chemical production.
Process and catalyst reliability,
especially at fluctuating feed conditions due to changing availability of renewable energy
Reduction of energy consumption to minimize costs for decarbonized ammonia
Lowest CAPEX for new plants
Cost-efficient purification of green H2 from electrolysis or bio route
AmoMax series catalysts: maximum efficiency and productivity in green ammonia production
Clariant's AmoMax series catalysts are industry-leading wustite-based solutions for ammonia synthesis, operating at more than 120 plants globally. Our latest generation offers enhanced activity and robustness to maximize cost efficiency, productivity, and reliability in green ammonia production.
We collaborate closely with top technology partners, like KBR and Casale, to continuously improve our catalysts. By jointly developing tailored solutions for their process technologies, we're paving the way for large-scale green ammonia adoption.
As a global leading company in ammonia synthesis, Clariant is driving catalyst innovation to make green ammonia commercially viable. With our unparalleled experience and expert partners, we help producers transition smoothly to sustainable production.
Unleash the potential of green ammonia with AmoMax catalysts
Product Benefits of AmoMax
High Activity
for maximum ammonia yield
Improved water and oxygen resistance
robust dynamic conditions
Lower operating pressure (up to 20 bar less)
leading to lower energy consumption
(up to 0.2 GJ/t NH3)
Applicable for green ammonia projects
with operating pressures < 90 bar
Performance with 80 ppm H2O
Performance comparison
Performance with 80 ppm H2O
Performance comparison
Green ammonia – the key contributor to the energy transition
Green ammonia, produced from renewable sources, has a negligible carbon footprint and is a promising sustainable energy source as the world transitions away from fossil fuels. However, producers face challenges with high costs and operational complexities. Clariant's AmoMax catalysts enable higher yields, lower pressure operation, and resistance to oxygenates, facilitating economical green ammonia deployment for a GREENER future.
Learn more about Clariant's high-performance AmoMax catalyst series
With industry-leading performance, Clariant's AmoMax series catalysts were selected for several high-profile green ammonia projects driving a renewable future.