MOPCO (Misr Fertilizers Production Company) has selected thyssenkrupp Uhde to supply advanced technology for three existing ammonia and urea plants in Damietta, Egypt.
The collaboration aims to enhance sustainability by integrating an innovative carbon capture and usage (CCU) solution. The technology will remove up to 145,000 tons of CO2 per year from the flue gas of ammonia production and redirect it into urea production.
Increasing Efficiency with Ammonia Converter Cartridges
To further improve efficiency, thyssenkrupp Uhde will install three state-of-the-art uhde® ammonia converter cartridges in the existing converters. These cartridges will boost ammonia production capacity while lowering natural gas consumption in the synthesis loop by approximately 10%.
Integrating Green Hydrogen for Lower Emissions
MOPCO will take additional steps to reduce CO2 emissions by sourcing green hydrogen feedstock from new water electrolysis units powered by renewable energy.
The initiative will enable the production of up to 1,50,000 tons per year of green ammonia, reinforcing MOPCO’s commitment to sustainable operations.
Commitment to Sustainability
Ahmed Mahmoud El-Sayed, Chairman of the Board and Managing Director of MOPCO stated, “This collaboration with thyssenkrupp Uhde marks a significant step towards our sustainability strategic goals. Their world-leading technologies will not only increase our production capacity but also demonstrate our commitment to providing more climate-friendly urea and producing green ammonia. MOPCO aims to become a leader in such products within the MENA region”.
Nadja Håkansson, CEO of thyssenkrupp Uhde added, “We are proud to enable our longstanding partner MOPCO to expand their business towards greener production through our innovative carbon capture and low-emission ammonia solutions”.
Revamping Existing Facilities for Greater Output
thyssenkrupp Uhde originally built the ammonia and urea plants between 2006 and 2015. Each of the three ammonia plants has a capacity of approximately 1,200 metric tons per day (mtpd). Each urea plant produces about 2,000 mtpd. To increase ammonia output, thyssenkrupp Uhde will insert new ammonia converter cartridges based on the latest design principles. These include removable beds with axial-radial flow design, allowing each plant to boost production by 150 mtpd.
Utilizing High-Performance Catalyst for Efficiency
The project incorporates Johnson Matthey’s high-performance catalyst, KATALCOTM 74-1, significantly increasing effective catalyst volumes. The new cartridges fit into the existing pressure shells, requiring minimal hardware modifications. This allows installation to be completed with reduced downtime.
Comprehensive Support for Installation and Start-Up
thyssenkrupp Uhde will provide comprehensive services during installation and start-up. This will ensure seamless integration with the planned green hydrogen supply.
According to the press release, the initiative marks a key milestone for MOPCO. It advances the company’s journey toward more sustainable and efficient fertilizer production.
