Global process technology providers KBR Inc., and Johnson Matthey plc (JM) have announced that they have signed an alliance agreement to license a groundbreaking ammonia-methanol co-production process that combines their market-leading ammonia and methanol technologies. The co-production process is based on well-proven technologies utilizing KBR's proprietary "PURIFIER" ammonia process and JM's methanol process.
According to a statement, both KBR’s ammonia technology and Johnson Matthey (JM’s) methanol technology showcase a long history, deep experience, continuous improvements, and leading-edge performance.
Since the 1960s, KBR has licensed, engineered, or constructed more than 244 ammonia plants worldwide. JM has supplied the methanol industry with leading technology and catalysts for over 45 years and has licensed over 100 grassroots methanol plants during this period.
I am excited to announce the alliance agreement combining market-leading technologies from KBR and JM into a new offering for our clients. KBR’s ammonia technology is known for its lowest energy consumption resulting in reduced carbon footprint, highest reliability and safety, and outstanding financial performance, said Doug Kelly, President Technology Solutions at KBR.
Ammonia is primarily used in the production of urea for fertilizer, with methanol and its derivative products primarily used to produce formaldehyde, acrylic plastic, synthetic fabrics, adhesives, paints, and other products in pharmaceuticals and agrichemicals.
The co-production of methanol and ammonia in a single plant offers many advantages including reduced capital expenditures (CAPEX) and lower operating expenses (OPEX). The KBR and JM co-production process makes the most of the possible synergies between the two processes, maximizing the savings in CAPEX and OPEX while offering the highest levels of safety, flexibility, and reliability.
Methanol and ammonia hold great promise for continued energy and fuel transition to a greener world. This strategic agreement is a powerful combination that provides our customers with a comprehensive solution for enhanced asset optimization, cost savings, and reduced environmental impact. Our partnership with KBR takes ammonia-methanol production to the next step with a single point license that delivers innovative operational agility to meet ever-changing market demand said John Gordon, Managing Director for Johnson Matthey.
