Latest press releases

2/22/24

thyssenkrupp Uhde signs agreement with Delta Company for Fertilizer and Chemical Industries to recommission an ammonia plant in Dakahlia, Egypt

  • Engineering solution by thyssenkrupp Uhde to bring ammonia plant back into operation

  • Increase in plant capacity and efficiency

  • Ready for blue ammonia production thanks to uhde® ammonia technology

thyssenkrupp Uhde Egypt has signed a contract with Egypt-based Delta Company for Fertilizer and Chemical Industries to revamp an existing ammonia plant complex located in Dakahlia, Talkha, Egypt. Delta focuses mainly on sustainable and environmentally friendly fertilizer projects in the Arab fertilizer industry.

Responsible for the front-end-engineering-design (FEED), thyssenkrupp Uhde will provide engineering solutions for the revamp of the ammonia plant as well as the ammonia offsite and central utility units.  The company will also supply its state-of-the-art technology for the production of ammonia and urea: the uhde® ammonia technology.

The uhde® ammonia technology is a world-leading technology that has been successfully implemented in more than 120 plants worldwide. Together with the FEED solution, this technology will enable the plant to be re-commissioned after a three-year shutdown, while at the same time increasing the plant’s capacity from 1275 to 1400 metric tons of ammonia per day.

Thomas Kufahl, CEO of thyssenkrupp Uhde in Egypt: “We are very proud to have been selected as the partner to execute this project and enable the re-commissioning of the ammonia plant together with a capacity increase. Our proven uhde® ammonia technology and our innovative engineering solutions guarantee the production of high-quality ammonia and urea worldwide.”

Delta’s ammonia plant recommissioning project is in line with the vision held by the Egyptian government and will provide significant impetus to the Egyptian economy during the reopening phase. The ammonia produced will facilitate expansion of the agricultural sector in Egypt.

About Delta Company for Fertilizer and Chemical Industries
Delta Company for Fertilizer and Chemical Industries belongs to Egypt’s state-owned Holding Company for Chemical Industries, which owns ammonia, urea, nitric acid, and ammonium nitrate plants in Talkha, Egypt. For more, visit:
https://deltafertilizer.com/home

About thyssenkrupp Uhde
thyssenkrupp Uhde combines unique technological expertise and decades of global experience in the engineering, procurement, construction and service of chemical plants. We develop innovative processes and products for a more sustainable future and thus contribute to the long-term success of our customers in almost all areas of the chemical industry. Our portfolio includes leading technologies for the production of base chemicals, fertilizers and polymers as well as complete value-chains for green hydrogen and sustainable chemicals. www.thyssenkrupp-uhde.com

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2/7/24

Growing interest in green and blue ammonia for energy imports: techno-economic studies by thyssenkrupp Uhde for potential cumulative global production of over 30 million tpa

  • Focus on green energy/hydrogen export via ammonia

  • Opportunities gain traction through political incentives

Two major trends dominate the energy and natural gas market: the high and volatile price of natural gas, and the shift towards renewable energy sources. While some of the most pressing energy needs can be met by LNG imports, there is growing market interest in ammonia as a carrier for green energy and hydrogen.

Lucretia Löscher, COO thyssenkrupp Uhde: “We have conducted numerous feasibility studies for power-to-hydrogen-to-ammonia development projects. Incentive schemes such as the Inflation Reduction Act, H2 Global and Hydrogen Head Start support the competitiveness of these climate-friendly projects.”

thyssenkrupp Uhde’s competence center for green ammonia in Australia supports a broad variety of customers with techno-economic studies and optimization concepts. In total, the studies already conducted would amount to a potential increase of the global production capacity by around 30 million tpa (tons per annum) of green ammonia. To produce the required green hydrogen, electrolyzers with more than 45 gigawatts would need to be installed with varying power supply configurations. The added up capacities from the studies reflect a significant interest in ammonia as an energy vector, and this underlines its importance for shipping green hydrogen and green energy across the globe. This development marks a fundamental diversification of its primary use as a fertilizer feedstock.

Ammonia market becomes sustainable, new markets emerge

As one of the world’s most traded base chemicals, ammonia is today mainly used for fertilizer production, with natural gas as a feedstock. However, more and more producers are looking for alternatives, and there are two main options. The first is 'blue ammonia', which is still produced from natural gas, but with the CO2 being captured and stored to reduce the carbon footprint as much as possible. The first projects are already underway, and many countries see this as a viable way to improve sustainability in the short term.

In the medium and long term, the green production of ammonia is key for a sustainable world. Only water, air and renewable electricity are needed to produce this high-demand base chemical in a completely emission-free way. As the global infrastructure for handling, storing, and transporting ammonia already exists, green ammonia could be produced in the sunny Gulf States, Australia or other renewable-rich countries and then transported to countries with high demand for renewable energy or hydrogen, such as many European countries. Ammonia has a volumetric energy density nearly 33% higher than liquid hydrogen, making it more efficient and cost-effective to transport. It also liquefies at -33°C, which is easier to achieve and maintain than the near-absolute-zero temperature of -253°C required for hydrogen liquefaction.

Ammonia cracking, or direct use in either power generation or as marine fuel

When green ammonia reaches its destination, it can be converted back into hydrogen by ammonia cracking, a technology which thyssenkrupp Uhde can also provide. This offers an alternative to fossil-based hydrogen and enables sustainable value chains for many chemicals. Even more efficient is the direct use of green ammonia, for example in gas turbines to generate power. This is already being tested in co-firing, and full ammonia turbines are also being developed.

One final point: To make the transport itself sustainable, more and more shipping companies are interested in using green ammonia as a marine fuel. With the exclusive use of green ammonia, the only emissions are nitrogen (the climate-neutral main component of our atmosphere) and water, with no emission of sulfur, soot, fine particulate matter, or C02. Ammonia is therefore an excellent way to transport green energy and hydrogen to where it is needed. Technologies are already being developed and applied.

About thyssenkrupp Uhde

thyssenkrupp Uhde combines unique technological expertise and decades of global experience in the engineering, procurement, construction and service of chemical plants. We develop innovative processes and products for a more sustainable future and thus contribute to the long-term success of our customers in almost all areas of the chemical industry. Our portfolio includes leading technologies for the production of base chemicals, fertilizers and polymers as well as complete value-chains for green hydrogen and sustainable chemicals. www.thyssenkrupp-uhde.com

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1/10/24

thyssenkrupp Uhde signs Master Agreement with Ma’aden and Metso on phosphogypsum recycling and CO2 capture project

  • Joint development of environmentally friendly solution

  • Low-emission calcination process enables CO2 capture in limestone

thyssenkrupp Uhde has signed a master agreement with Ma’aden (Saudi Arabian Mining Company) for the development, engineering and licensing of a calcination plant for phosphogypsum processing. The purpose of the proposed plant, to be located at Ma’aden’s Ras al Khair site in Saudi Arabia, will be to recycle phosphogypsum and enable the capture of CO2 emissions. The joint research and development will be carried out together with thyssenkrupp Polysius and Metso Outotec.

Hassan Al-Ali, Executive Vice President, Ma’aden Phosphate: “We look forward to working with our partners to develop this unique solution, utilizing our new patented technology to reduce carbon emissions and recycle phosphogypsum into a useful resource. With this ambitious project, we will contribute significantly to the Saudi Green Initiative and create lasting impact in line with our Kingdom’s Vision 2030.”

“We are honored to be chosen by our esteemed customer to provide our technology and expertise,” said Lucretia Löscher, COO thyssenkrupp Uhde. “We are providing the innovative process to turn the phosphate industry into a circular economy. This project will be another important milestone for thyssenkrupp Uhde in enabling the green transformation of our customers.”

Currently, significant amounts of phosphogypsum are produced as a by-product of phosphoric acid production, which is essential for producing phosphate fertilizers. The options for using phosphogypsum directly are very limited due to impurities and the general properties of this material. The innovative phosphogypsum treatment process will have three major benefits: First, it converts phosphogypsum into quicklime (calcium oxide, CaO). By using alternative fuels such as hydrogen or sulfur, this calcination step is low in CO2 emissions. Additional know-how for this process is provided by thyssenkrupp Polysius, a full range-supplier of the cement and lime industry. Secondly, it enables the recovery of sulphuric acid, which can be recycled and reused as feedstock for phosphoric acid production. And thirdly, the quicklime binds CO2 through a carbonization process to form limestone. The limestone can then be used, for example, in the construction industry or for cement production.

About Ma’aden
Ma’aden is the largest multi-commodity mining and metals company in the Middle East and among the fastest-growing mining companies in the world, with revenues of SAR 40.3 billion (US$ 10.7 billion) in 2022. We are developing the mining industry into the third pillar of Saudi economy in line with Vision 2030 and aim to be a role model in responsible and sustainable operations.

We operate 17 mines and sites, have 6,500+ direct employees and export products to over 30 countries. We are embarking on massive growth over the next 18 years across phosphate, aluminum, gold, copper and new minerals – to leverage the Kingdom’s estimated US$ 1.3 trillion mineral endowment and international opportunities.

For more information, please visit https://www.maaden.com.sa

About thyssenkrupp Uhde
thyssenkrupp Uhde combines unique technological expertise and decades of global experience in the engineering, procurement, construction and service of chemical plants. We develop innovative processes and products for a more sustainable future, and thus contribute to the long-term success of our customers in almost all areas of the chemical industry. Our portfolio includes leading technologies for producing base chemicals, fertilizers and polymers as well as complete value chains for green hydrogen and sustainable chemicals. www.thyssenkrupp-uhde.com

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12/1/23

thyssenkrupp Uhde won contract for biopolymer plant from Gulf Biopolymers Industries Ltd.

  • First large-scale biopolymer plant with Uhde Inventa-Fischer technology in the MENA region

  • Fully integrated process for production of polylactic acid from 100% renewable feedstock

thyssenkrupp Uhde has secured a Basic Engineering Package (BEP) and Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) package for the establishment of a biopolymer plant on the Arabian Peninsula. The plant is intended to produce an industrial large-scale volume of polylactic acid (PLA) polymer, utilizing lactic acid from corn as the primary feedstock. While polymer specialist Uhde Inventa-Fischer will perform the BEP for the PLA production based on its proprietary state-of-the-art technology, its sister company thyssenkrupp Uhde India will perform the FEED which covers the complete production complex including associated offsite and utilities.

The design of the biopolymer plant focuses on stringently optimized feedstock utilization during all stages: from starch conversion to lactic acid production, and finally polylactic acid production. An integral aspect of this project is the plant's ability to sustainably produce a range of PLA grades, addressing the diverse requirements of various industries such as packaging, textiles, and hygiene supplies.

"Replacing fossil feedstocks with renewable ones can minimize the ecological impact of entire value chains," stated Dr. Cord Landsmann, CEO thyssenkrupp Uhde. "This project is another proof that we can significantly contribute to a more sustainable production of much-needed materials for global key industries."

Harald Kroll, CEO Gulf Biopolymers Industries: “We are proud to announce the establishment of the first large biopolymer plant in the MENA region. This project is a milestone for the reduction of fossil-based plastics, and advancing the adoption of environmentally friendly PLA polymers.”

Derived from lactic acid, PLA stands out as a genuine biopolymer. It is produced from renewable biomass sources, and it is also biodegradable. This positions PLA as a sustainable alternative to conventional fossil-based plastics, offering a pragmatic solution for reducing the environmental footprint associated with plastic production and consumption.

About Gulf Biopolymers Industries Ltd. (GBI)
GBI are experts in the manufacture of PLA biopolymers for the consumer packaging and textiles industries. We are champions of a green tomorrow, enabling our clients, and their customers, to switch from fossil-based plastics to our 100% renewable and 100% recyclable biodegradable polymers. Together we are actively contributing to decarbonization, advancing the circular economy, and creating a less polluted future for our planet. Further details to be announced later.

About thyssenkrupp Uhde
thyssenkrupp Uhde combines unique technological expertise and decades of global experience in the engineering, procurement, construction, and service of chemical plants. We develop innovative processes and products for a more sustainable future, and thus contribute to the long-term success of our customers in almost all areas of the chemical industry. Our portfolio includes leading technologies for producing base chemicals, fertilizers and polymers as well as complete value chains for green hydrogen and sustainable chemicals.
www.thyssenkrupp-uhde.com

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11/21/23

thyssenkrupp Uhde selected by Saipem to license a urea granulation unit in Karratha, Australia

  • Efficient and low-emission urea production by means of thyssenkrupp Fertilizer Technology's UFT® fluid-bed urea granulation technology

thyssenkrupp Fertilizer Technology of thyssenkrupp Uhde has signed a contract with the Italian Group Saipem, a global leader in the engineering and construction of major projects for the energy and infrastructure sectors, to license a urea granulation unit in Karratha, Western Australia. The project in Karratha is being realized and built for Perdaman Chemicals and Fertilisers by a joint venture (50/50) comprising the Western Australian company Clough and the Italian company Saipem. Perdaman Chemicals and Fertilisers is a multinational company headquartered in Western Australia. Besides investing in fertilizer production, it specializes in supporting farmers with harvesting and food production.

thyssenkrupp Fertilizer Technology of thyssenkrupp Uhde will be responsible for the licensing, the process design package and for supplying the main equipment for Saipem’s urea project. With its proprietary UFT® fluid-bed urea granulation technology, thyssenkrupp Fertilizer Technology is supplying one of the world's leading technologies for the production of urea granules by means of the fluidized-bed process. More than 70% of the urea granules produced worldwide are manufactured by means of the UFT® fluid-bed urea granulation technology, which contributes to a large extent to secure food supply for the world. The emissions are below the statutory emission limits for urea dust and ammonia.

For this project, thyssenkrupp Fertilizer Technology has been contracted to supply two granulators and two exhaust air scrubbers for the urea granulation unit, which will be used for the manufacture of fertilizers. The granulation unit will have a total production capacity of 6,200 metric tons per day, made up of two identical trains with respective capacities of 3,100 metric tons per day each. The proven, licensed UFT® fluid-bed urea granulation technology is being successfully used in more than 70 plants in the fertilizer industry worldwide. This technology is one of the pillars of thyssenkrupp Uhde’s successful fertilizer portfolio.

Perdaman Chemicals and Fertilisers’ urea project will provide important impetus for the Western Australian economy by creating around 2,000 jobs during the three-year construction phase. On completion, the plant will create more than 200 permanent jobs in Karratha, Western Australia.

Dr. Cord Landsmann, CEO thyssenkrupp Uhde: “This project for Perdaman marks an important milestone that will further consolidate our position as a technology supplier in the fertilizer industry. We are proud to have been selected as the partner to supply our highly efficient urea granulation technology. With our proven UFT® fluid-bed urea granulation technology, we guarantee the production of a consistent top-quality product and, at the same time, strict compliance with environmental standards. We are pleased to be supplying the market with advanced technologies for fertilizer production and furnishing our global customers with the best solutions.”

Vikas Rambal, Chairman Perdaman said: “We are pleased to be building Australia's biggest downstream project, which represents a major investment in the Australian production sector. This state-of-the-art plant will contribute to Australia having a safe and reliable source of high-quality urea, thus supporting the farmers and food producers. The decision in favor of thyssenkrupp Fertilizer Technology as the technology supplier and licensor for this urea project not only speaks for the competence of thyssenkrupp Fertilizer Technology, but also for confidence in the ability of the company to supply reliable solutions for the fertilizer industry.”

About Perdaman
Perdaman is a multinational group based in Western Australia with a long-standing track record in involvement within a diverse range of markets. From investments in fertiliser production to help our farmers produce crops, to the ownership and management of shopping centres, from the production and distribution of pharmaceuticals to provide better healthcare, to recruitment & migration services and advanced energy solutions, we are an innovative company that actively seeks out new opportunities. Integral to this is our corporate culture of creating leaders and growing together as a team, and all our operations are backed by extensive financial services to ensure strength and growth. We are also highly involved in the community and actively give back – from supporting local sporting teams to contributing towards better education. We do what we do with passion, and we do what we do with a sincere desire to create a better tomorrow. For more information, visit
www.perdaman.com.au

About thyssenkrupp Fertilizer Technology GmbH
thyssenkrupp Fertilizer Technology is a fully owned subsidiary of thyssenkrupp Uhde GmbH, but still an autonomous and independent licensor in the field of urea granulation. As such, its portfolio includes the granting of licenses for the use of UFT® fluid-bed urea granulation technology, the preparation and creation of process design packages, the supply of proprietary equipment (granulators and exhaust air scrubbers) and spare parts, and studies of all kinds. Having already gained 45 years' experience since realizing the first industrial-scale plant, thyssenkrupp Fertilizer Technology focuses purely on urea granulation and the continuous optimization and refinement of the process.

About thyssenkrupp Uhde
thyssenkrupp Uhde combines unique technological expertise and decades of global experience in the engineering, procurement, construction and service of fertilizer and chemical plants. We develop innovative processes and products for a more sustainable future and thus contribute to the long-term success of our customers in almost all areas of the chemical and fertilizer industry. Our portfolio includes leading technologies for the production of base chemicals, fertilizers and polymers as well as complete value chains for green hydrogen and sustainable chemicals. To find out more, visit: www.thyssenkrupp-uhde.com  

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11/9/23

thyssenkrupp Uhde and DL E&C (with affiliate CARBONCO) sign contract with Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners for Murchison Hydrogen Renewables Project Pre-FEED

  • Pre-FEED to progress the engineering development of the Murchison Hydrogen Renewables for the production of green ammonia using uhde® ammonia synthesis technology

  • Proven RHAMFS® methodology for concept optimization of green ammonia plants

thyssenkrupp Uhde, in partnership with DL E&C (formerly Daelim Industrial) and its affiliate (CARBONCO), has been selected by Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners P/S (CIP) on behalf of Murchison Hydrogen Renewables Pty Ltd, to deliver a pre-FEED to support the development of the giga-watt-scale Murchison green ammonia project in Kalbarri, Western Australia. This project will use onshore wind and solar energy for green hydrogen and green ammonia production.

The key goal of the pre-FEED is to enhance the technical concept and commence key engineering activities for the ammonia plant. The study will be based on thyssenkrupp Uhde’s dynamic uhde® ammonia synthesis technology, which has been specifically developed to tackle the unique challenges of dynamic ammonia production. The company will also provide integration engineering for the full facility. The pre-FEED will also enable Murchison Hydrogen Renewables to advance through the subsequent commercial and regulatory phases of the project.

Dr. Cord Landsmann, CEO of thyssenkrupp Uhde, said: “With our technologies, we at thyssenkrupp Uhde are making a significant contribution to the green transformation. With our technologies and new partnerships like this one with Murchison Hydrogen Renewables, we are building a sound business case for this groundbreaking green energy project and enabling the sustainable and climate-friendly production of green ammonia.”

Dr. Sang Min Lee, CEO of CARBONCO, said: “We are confident that this partnership for the green ammonia project will further accelerate the global transition to achieve carbon neutrality. We believe that CARBONCO will be a bridge between Western Australia and East Asia, which will play a significant role in the energy transition.”

About CARBONCO

CARBONCO is an affiliate of DL Group (formerly Daelim Group). By diversifying its green energy business portfolio to not only include FEED/EPC services but also consulting services, CARBONCO takes a significant role in every aspect of the clean hydrogen/ammonia business. To learn more about CARBONCO, please visit: www.carbonco.com/eng/main

About thyssenkrupp Uhde

thyssenkrupp Uhde combines unique technological expertise and decades of global experience in the engineering, procurement, construction and service of chemical plants. We develop innovative processes and products for a more sustainable future, and thus contribute to the long-term success of our customers in almost all areas of the chemical industry. Our portfolio includes leading technologies for producing base chemicals, fertilizers and polymers as well as complete value chains for green hydrogen and sustainable chemicals. www.thyssenkrupp-uhde.com

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