The US-based company says its proprietary synthesis technology could reduce ammonia production costs “by half”, as demand grows for low-carbon fertilisers, fuels, and hydrogen carriers.

Named “Haber Bosch 2.0”, the technology “reimagines” ammonia making, shortening the production chain by eliminating syngas compressors, ammonia reactors, and ammonia condensation systems.

It replaces these with its reactor technology, which operates at ten times lower pressure and 150°C lower temperature than conventional fertiliser producers.

Ammobia argues that the lower operating pressure and temperature allow the system to operate efficiently on intermittent renewable power, potentially eliminating the need for hydrogen storage.

If proven at scale, the approach could address energy efficiency concerns of using ammonia as a hydrogen carrier or clean fuel.

The funding will be used to build a pilot facility to derisk the technology ahead of commercial demonstration. Ammobia has not disclosed a timeline.

CEO and co-founder of Ammobia, Karen Baert, said the ammonia industry is at an “inflection point” and that Ammobia is positioned to serve its immediate and long-term needs.

Ammonia is viewed as a hydrogen transportation solution because it can store hydrogen densely in a stable, easily liquefied form that can be moved and handled more efficiently than pure hydrogen.

While the compound is already traded in its millions of tonnes for fertilisers and other applications, critics say the energy-intensive synthesis and cracking processes undermine its potential.

Baert said continued reliance on century-old Haber-Bosch technology would limit emissions reductions and cost improvements in both existing ammonia markets and emerging uses such as maritime fuels.

She said the company believes its approach could help address near-term cost and supply-chain pressures while supporting longer-term decarbonisation of the ammonia industry.