Devon-based Ammotto, which it says is on a mission to revolutionise the world’s energy landscape with zero-emission technology, has secured a PCT patent (international) and UK patent on its technology to build net zero industrial engines which run on ammonia.

The engine has been designed by Ammotto for use in industrial engine machines such as forklifts, and will bring affordable, clean energy to the industrial sector, the company states. 

Ammotto explains its high compression ratio, direct injection engines use a process called “ammonia disassociation or cracker” to produce a hydrogen/nitrogen gas which is injected into the cylinders to form part of the fuel mix. This acts as an accelerant which aids the burning of the ammonia. 

The high efficiency propriety cracker design combined with high compression ratios, gives a very efficient thermal engine. 

Ammotta says the technology is fully scalable from 40 kW to 5 MW and “can easily replace most diesel engines”. 

Paul Quickenden, director engineer with Ammotto,  says the engine technology is a “true zero CO2 engine” which does not rely on a fossil fuel ignition source.

“Our ammonia engines produce water vapour with small quantities of unburned ammonia and some NOx,” Quickenden explains. “We run this vapour through a SCR catalyst to remove NOx and most of the unburnt ammonia. 

“Remaining ammonia is then absorbed by the water in the exhaust, generating clean, carbon-free energy.

“Refuelling is simple and fast; with operating costs very similar to that of diesel ammonia [it] is a cost effective fuel.

Ammotto says it has developed a running prototype and is seeking funding to commercialise the technology.