MUCC initiates commercial-scale ammonia combustion demonstration test in the cement manufacturing process

In 2023, MUCC began an ammonia co-combustion test with actual equipment at the Ube Cement Plant. This project was subsequently selected for Yamaguchi Prefecture's FY2023 Carbon Neutral Complex Development Promotion Subsidy. In collaboration with UBE Corporation, which supplies ammonia, MUCC proceeded with the installation of a test facility to co-fire ammonia in the cement kiln and calciner. With the successful completion of this project, MUCC has begun the world's first commercial-scale demonstration test using actual cement production equipment. To date, a prospect has been established for replacing 30% of the calorific value of coal with ammonia in the cement kiln. For the calciner, the test is expected to be completed by the end of fiscal 2025, with the same 30% replacement ratio targeted.

The transition from fossil-derived thermal energy sources, such as coal currently used in cement kilns and calciners, to carbon-free energy is one of the most effective strategies for achieving decarbonisation in cement manufacturing. Ammonia is gaining international attention as a next-generation energy source due to its carbon dioxide-free combustion. This demonstration marks the first global use of ammonia as a thermal energy source for cement burning. To prepare for future ammonia utilisation, MUCC has conducted research and development efforts, including ammonia combustion experiments using small combustion furnaces and optimisation studies with computational fluid dynamics (CFD). These efforts have significantly contributed to the success of the current demonstration test.

Looking ahead, MUCC plans to continue ammonia combustion tests in cement kilns and calciners on a commercial scale, incorporating waste plastics and other waste materials as joint thermal energy sources. These efforts are aimed at accumulating operational expertise in ammonia utilisation.

Global warming countermeasures are considered one of the highest priorities within MUCC’s Group strategy. The demonstration test is the first step in adopting new technologies to achieve carbon neutrality and position the company as an industry leader.

Read the article online at: https://www.worldcement.com/asia-pacific-rim/18032025/mucc-initiates-commercial-scale-ammonia-combustion-demonstration-test-in-the-cement-manufacturing-process/