NGK INSULATORS, LTD. (NGK) and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) are collaborating on the development of membrane dehydration systems for Bioethanol and e-Methanol production.
The goal is to optimize efficiency and reduce costs in manufacturing processes, in line with the increasing demand for clean fuels and raw materials.
The project involves the development of two types of membrane dehydration systems: one for Bioethanol and another for e-Methanol.
The Bioethanol system will replace the energy-intensive conventional dehydration process, leading to a significant reduction in energy consumption during production. Similarly, the e-Methanol system will replace the current dehydration process, resulting in lower energy consumption and positioning e-Methanol as a promising next-generation clean fuel.
MHI will contribute its extensive expertise in delivering methanol plants and chemical plants, as well as its knowledge of methanol and various other chemicals. NGK, on the other hand, will leverage its deep understanding of sub-nano ceramic membrane technology and unique film deposition technology in the fields of chemical processes and water purification. Notably, NGK has developed the world’s largest ceramic membranes, which are known for their exceptional separation accuracy and durability.
With the forecasted growth in demand for both Bioethanol and e-Methanol as clean fuels and raw materials, MHI and NGK are committed to developing these systems to achieve real-world deployment and establish a stable supply system.
Bioethanol, derived from plants like corn and sugarcane, is a clean fuel widely used in the automotive industry and is also expected to contribute to the production of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). On the other hand, e-Methanol is gaining popularity as a next-generation clean fuel, especially in the marine fuel sector, and is expected to have a global market presence.
MHI Group is dedicated to its growth strategy in the Energy Transition sector, aiming to achieve decarbonization in the energy supply chain and ultimately reach Carbon Neutrality by 2040. By developing high-efficiency manufacturing processes for hydrogen-free Bioethanol and e-Methanol, MHI aims to establish and implement decarbonization technologies, contributing to the realization of a sustainable, Carbon-Neutral world.
NGK Group has formulated a “Carbon Neutrality Strategic Roadmap” consisting of four strategies to support the realization of a carbon-neutral society. This includes the development and provision of hydrogen and Carbon dioxide Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) related technologies and products.
By leveraging ceramic technology and implementing key devices in society, NGK aims to contribute to society and address challenges that were previously difficult to overcome.
Together, NGK and MHI are driving innovation in membrane dehydration systems for Bioethanol and e-Methanol production. Their collaboration aims to optimize efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and meet the increasing demand for clean fuels and raw materials, ultimately contributing to a sustainable and carbon-neutral future.
