The Finnish company Hycamite TCD Technologies has received an Approval in Principle (AiP) from the classification society DNV for a hydrogen system for use in shipping. The approval concerns a concept for the separation of solid carbon before combustion, based on Hycamite's thermocatalytic decomposition technology.
The technology allows hydrogen to be produced from methane on board ships powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG). Methane is decomposed into hydrogen gas and solid carbon. Unlike conventional processes, no CO2 is produced. Instead, heat and reusable catalysts are used in an oxygen-free environment.
On-board Hydrogen Production Without CO2 Emissions
The system is intended to enable the conversion of LNG into hydrogen during ship operation. This hydrogen can then be used in dual-fuel engines or fuel cells. The resulting solid carbon is stored on board. A separate infrastructure for liquid hydrogen is therefore not required.
According to Hycamite, the technology significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions. When using biomethane, even climate-neutral or negative operation is possible.
“The Approval in Principle from DNV underscores the functionality of our methane decomposition technology and its potential for shipping applications,” says Laura Rahikka, CEO of Hycamite. “Our solution enables the production of hydrogen from liquefied natural gas and the separation of solid carbon on board, providing a practical alternative to liquid hydrogen.”
DNV Recognizes CO2-Free Hydrogen Technology for Ships for the First Time
Torill Grimstad Osberg, Senior Principal Expert for Alternative Fuels at DNV Maritime, emphasizes: “With this AiP, we have recognized for the first time a technology for carbon separation before combustion, intended for hydrogen production on ships.”
The AiP confirms the fundamental technical feasibility of the concept and ensures that no significant obstacles stand in the way of implementation.
Hycamite sees the technology as a contribution to the decarbonization of international shipping. In addition to CO2-free hydrogen production, the process also produces by-products such as graphite and carbon nanofibers, which can be further used industrially.
