As the world seeks greener energy solutions, hydrogen, and its derivatives are gaining momentum for their potential in CO₂-free power generation. However, the challenge of hydrogen storage and transport has hindered broader adoption. Now, researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Ceramic Technologies and Systems (IKTS) have developed a demonstration plant that uses ammonia, a hydrogen derivative, as a safe and efficient carrier of hydrogen, converting it directly into electricity through a high-temperature fuel cell (SOFC) system.
This breakthrough positions ammonia as a powerful medium for sustainable power generation, especially for industries and communities not connected to hydrogen networks.
The Fraunhofer system relies on a specially designed SOFC stack to convert ammonia into electricity with minimal environmental impact. In this setup, ammonia (NH₃) is first broken down, or “cracked,” at temperatures exceeding 300°C (572°F), producing hydrogen gas and nitrogen. The hydrogen then flows into a ceramic fuel cell, which reacts to generate electricity and heat. The process produces only harmless by-products, like water vapor and nitrogen, allowing the system to operate without CO₂ emissions or other pollutants.
Fraunhofer researcher Prof. Laura Nousch explains, “Ammonia has been used in industry for decades, especially in fertilizers, so handling it is well understood. With its high energy density and relative ease of storage and transport, ammonia is an ideal hydrogen carrier for clean electricity generation.”
The demonstration plant at Fraunhofer IKTS in Dresden illustrates how ammonia can be transformed into climate-friendly electricity. The system’s thermal management and ceramic cell technology allow it to reach an efficiency level of 60%, comparable to natural gas systems, but without CO₂ emissions. The waste heat generated in the process can be repurposed for building heating, enhancing the system’s sustainability and economic appeal.
The Fraunhofer ammonia SOFC system is designed for flexibility, making it ideal for industries and municipalities aiming for sustainable energy independence. The compact design allows tailored installations, serving as a decentralized power source for factories, local utilities, and maritime applications. Large ships could adopt this system as an eco-friendly propulsion option, reducing their reliance on traditional fossil fuels.
Prof. Nousch highlights the system’s adaptability: “Our approach allows us to design custom fuel cell solutions with efficient thermal management, supporting various applications in climate-friendly power and heat generation.”
