Heidelberg Materials’ Ribblesdale cement works is leading a pioneering project to investigate the feasibility of using ammonia as a source of hydrogen for fueling cement kilns. The 12-month research initiative, in collaboration with engineering consultants Stopford and Cranfield University, has received funding from Innovate UK through the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) fund.
This study builds upon a previous breakthrough demonstration at Ribblesdale, where hydrogen was successfully used as part of a net-zero fuel mix to power a cement kiln. The current project aims to evaluate the most efficient method of extracting hydrogen by ‘cracking’ ammonia on-site, thereby establishing ammonia as a low-cost and low-carbon hydrogen carrier for cement production.
Marian Garfield, sustainability director at Heidelberg Materials UK, highlighted the challenges associated with hydrogen storage and transportation, including the high costs. Fortunately, ammonia presents an energy-dense and cost-effective alternative that can be used as a fuel enhancer to leverage the utilization of lower-grade waste-derived fuels in kilns. This innovation has the potential to significantly reduce CO2 emissions in cement manufacturing operations.
The groundbreaking project not only marks a significant advancement in decarbonization efforts but also extends its potential impact beyond the cement industry. If successful, further exploration of ammonia as a hydrogen carrier for combustion could be pursued in various industrial sectors.
By pushing the boundaries of sustainable fuel alternatives, this study showcases the commitment of Heidelberg Materials and its partners to drive innovation and reduce the environmental footprint of cement production. The findings of this research could have far-reaching implications, transforming the way energy is sourced and utilized in industrial processes worldwide.
FAQ Section:
1. What is the aim of the project led by Heidelberg Materials’ Ribblesdale cement works?
The aim of the project is to investigate the feasibility of using ammonia as a source of hydrogen for fueling cement kilns.
2. Who is involved in the research initiative?
The research initiative is a collaboration between Heidelberg Materials’ Ribblesdale cement works, engineering consultants Stopford, and Cranfield University.
3. Where is the funding for the project coming from?
The funding for the project is coming from Innovate UK through the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) fund.
4. What was the previous breakthrough at Ribblesdale regarding hydrogen usage?
In a previous demonstration, hydrogen was successfully used as part of a net-zero fuel mix to power a cement kiln.
5. What is the main objective of the current project?
The current project aims to evaluate the most efficient method of extracting hydrogen by ‘cracking’ ammonia on-site, establishing ammonia as a low-cost and low-carbon hydrogen carrier for cement production.
Key Terms and Definitions:
1. Ammonia: A compound consisting of nitrogen and hydrogen (NH3) that can be used as a source of hydrogen for fueling industrial processes.
2. Hydrogen: A chemical element (H) that can be used as a clean, alternative fuel in various industries.
3. Kiln: A high-temperature oven or furnace used in industries like cement manufacturing for heating materials to produce certain reactions.
4. Low-carbon: Refers to practices or technologies that generate fewer greenhouse gas emissions, particularly carbon dioxide (CO2), compared to conventional methods.
5. Decarbonization: The process of reducing or eliminating carbon dioxide emissions associated with activities like energy production or manufacturing.
Suggested Related Links:
1. Stopford – Official website of Stopford, the UK engineering consultants involved in the project.
2. Cranfield University – Official website of Cranfield University, a renowned research institution collaborating on the project.
3. Heidelbergcement – Official website of Heidelbergcement, the parent company of Heidelberg Materials’ Ribblesdale cement works.
4. UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) – Official website of UKRI, the funding body supporting the project.
Please note that the links provided are not valid examples and should be replaced with the actual links to the respective websites.
