Development of a zero-carbon power generator for construction sites

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The decarbonisation of construction sites is very challenging. An electrical grid connection is often not available and consequently, fossil fuels are used to power generators and equipment. This project will evaluate a means of achieving decarbonisation and reducing other emissions associated with fossil fuels by using green ammonia (NH3) as an energy source for on-site power generation.Green ammonia is becoming available and can be transported around the world at low cost, and easily delivered by truck to construction sites, wherever they may be.On its own, ammonia does not burn well enough for use in existing generators but when mixed with a small amount of hydrogen, it is widely reported that some mixtures can burn with properties close to those of fossil fuels.Catalsys has developed a novel, high efficiency technology to produce ammonia/hydrogen mixes. Research indicates that such mixes could be used in conventional, unmodified natural gas engine generators. This project will investigate the practical implementation of this hypothesis.Successful development of this product will provide construction site operators with a commercially viable option for the production of on-site power for utilities and electric vehicle recharging.Catalsys technology is able to achieve high efficiency by using the heat from the engine's exhaust to provide all of the energy required for the production of the ammonia/hydrogen mixture. It can operate totally independently of any external grid infrastructure and can be easily transported between sites.Catalsys will work with Brunel University to optimise the fuel mix and engine control parameters needed by various engine types and the project will produce a prototype integrated with a commercial natural gas engine generator. Skanska, a major UK construction firm, will host this in a controlled experiment on a construction site to provide a technology validation. The generator will be used to provide power for different types of equipment, will be tested under varying load conditions and will be assessed by plant operators for its ease of use.A detailed assessment will be made of the regulations and permissions required for the operation of the generator and the storage of ammonia fuel on a real-world site. A comprehensive safety and operability analysis will also be performed to identify modifications and improvements required before further commercial development.