Hydrogen Injection Sparks Ammonia Engines: NTNU Research Advances Carbon-Free Fuel

Researchers at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) are pioneering a method to ignite ammonia engines using hydrogen, addressing a key hurdle in adopting ammonia as a carbon-free fuel. David Emberson, associate professor at NTNU's Department of Marine Technology, highlights ammonia's historical use as a fuel during World War II when gasoline was scarce. Today, ammonia is gaining attention as a potential zero-carbon fuel for shipping and power generation, but its high ignition temperature and slow flame speed have limited practical use. By injecting a small amount of hydrogen to initiate combustion, the team aims to make ammonia engines more viable. This innovation could accelerate the maritime industry's transition away from fossil fuels, reducing greenhouse gas emissions. With global shipping under pressure to decarbonize, hydrogen-assisted ammonia combustion may offer a scalable solution. The research underscores the importance of combining existing fuels with new technologies to meet climate goals.