Technology

The solution will combine thyssenkrup Uhde’s uhde ammonia process and JM’s hydrogen expertise through its LCHTM technology. (Image source: thyssenkrupp Uhde GmbH)

thyssenkrupp Uhde, and Johnson Matthey (JM), are teaming up to offer a fully integrated low carbon (blue) ammonia solution that is more climate-friendly than current production methods

Demand for ammonia is growing because it is easier to store and transport than pure hydrogen, given it can use existing infrastructure, and is key to decarbonising the world’s power, shipping, and industrial processes.

The solution will combine thyssenkrup Uhde’s uhde ammonia process and JM’s hydrogen expertise through its LCHTM technology, which will enable the production of blue ammonia with up to 99% CO2 capture. thyssenkrupp Uhde has licensed, engineered, or constructed over 130 ammonia plants worldwide since 1928 and is market leading in plants greater than 3,000 metric tonnes per day with its unique uhde dual pressure technology. JM’s LCH technology, which utilises JM’s autothermal reformer alone, or in conjunction with JM’s gas heated reformer, has been selected for several of the world’s first large scale blue hydrogen projects.

Lucretia Löscher, COO thyssenkrupp Uhde, said, “At thyssenkrupp Uhde, we are committed to our purpose, ‘we create a livable planet’. With this strong partnership we further broaden our portfolio of climate-friendly solutions and can help our customers even better to reach their sustainability goals.”

Alberto Giovanzana, managing director – Catalyst Technologies at Johnson Matthey, said, “We know multiple routes are needed in the energy transition, and ammonia provides several options because it can be used directly in power and shipping industries, and as a hydrogen carrier to safely transport hydrogen to areas it is not easy to produce. Combining our expertise and over two decades worth of partnership with thyssenkrupp Uhde, we are excited to offer this technology which will allow our customers to produce ammonia with significantly lower CO2 emissions.”

The signing of the agreement. (Image source: Pasqal)

Saudi Arabia is set to get its first quantum computer, following the signing of an agreement between Aramco and Pasqal

Under the agreement Pasqal, a global leader in neutral atom quantum computing, will install, maintain and operate a 200-qubit quantum computer, which is scheduled for deployment in the second half of 2025.

Pasqal and Aramco intend to leverage the quantum computer to identify new use cases, and are looking to establish a centre for quantum research within Saudi Arabia, involving leading academic institutions.

Ahmad Al-Khowaiter, Aramco EVP of Technology & Innovation, said, “Aramco is delighted to partner with Pasqal to bring cutting-edge, high-performance quantum computing capabilities to the Kingdom. In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, we believe it is crucial to seize opportunities presented by new, impactful technologies and we aim to pioneer the use of quantum computing in the energy sector. Our agreement with Pasqal allows us to harness the expertise of a leading player in this field, as we continue to build state-of-the-art solutions into our business. It is also further evidence of our contribution to the growth of the digital economy in Saudi Arabia.”

Georges-Olivier Reymond, Pasqal CEO & co-founder, said, “The era of quantum computing is here. Through this partnership, we'll be at the forefront of accelerating commercial adoption of this transformative technology in Saudi Arabia. This isn't just any quantum computer; it will be the most powerful tool deployed for industrial usages, unlocking a new era of innovation for businesses and society.”