Amogy, a startup founded by four MIT alumni, is making waves with a catalyst that could revolutionize ammonia’s role as an energy source. The company claims its device decomposes ammonia into hydrogen and nitrogen with up to 70% greater efficiency than current systems, opening doors for applications in maritime transport, power generation, and other high-energy sectors. This isn’t just another green tech promise—it’s a potential game-changer for industries grappling with decarbonization.
Amogy’s strategy is clear: commercialize its catalyst and modular systems that convert ammonia into energy without combustion, eliminating concerns about carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxide emissions. CEO Seonghoon Woo emphasizes the scalability of the technology, designed to handle operations akin to ships and trucks. The company is already making strides, focusing on energy-intensive sectors like maritime transport, civil construction, mining, and electricity generation. Ammonia’s superior energy density compared to renewables or batteries makes it an attractive alternative, and Amogy is capitalizing on this advantage.
The company has signed a manufacturing contract with Samsung Heavy Industries and plans to supply commercial systems starting next year. A 1-megawatt pilot project is set for 2026 in Pohang, South Korea, with expectations to expand to 40 megawatts by 2028 or 2029. Beyond this, Amogy has completed a research and production center in Houston and is partnering with JGC Holdings Corporation for pilot implementations. Woo highlights dozens of ongoing projects involving multinational corporations, underscoring the growing interest in Amogy’s technology.
The ammonia cracking process, which splits NH3 molecules into nitrogen and hydrogen, traditionally requires high temperatures and intensive energy use. Amogy claims to have identified new material formulas that allow the catalyst to be miniaturized and operate at lower temperatures, reducing costs and expanding deployment possibilities. Woo notes that the team had to redevelop all the technology, including the catalyst, reformer, and integration with larger systems. The process doesn’t involve burning ammonia, eliminating the need for pilot fuel and preventing the release of nitrogen gas and CO2. This flexibility makes the system suitable for both portable and industrial applications.
Amogy’s efficiency claims are backed by demonstrations, starting with the first ammonia-powered drone in 2021. The catalyst produces hydrogen efficiently, and when integrated into fuel cells or hydrogen engines, forms modular systems capable of converting ammonia into energy on different scales. This adaptability allows Amogy to meet the diverse energy demands of clients across various sectors. Woo emphasizes the company’s focus on decarbonizing heavy industries, including transportation, chemical production, manufacturing, and high-emission sectors aiming to meet national targets.
Looking ahead, Amogy envisions its systems being used in microgrids and, eventually, in larger-scale networks. Woo’s goal is to make ammonia a viable option for energy generation at different scales, broadening the technology’s reach and boosting the adoption of hydrogen produced from ammonia decomposition. This perspective aligns with the broader industry push towards sustainable energy solutions, positioning Amogy at the forefront of the energy transition.