IMP’s Microwave Catalytic Reactor is a scalable technology platform for microwave chemistry. For instance, the conversion of hydrocarbon feedstocks like Methane into hydrogen and solid carbon. Microwave energy is delivered directly into the catalyst and reaction zone, enabling rapid heating, responsive process control and flexible operation. Because the system is powered entirely by electricity, it can be combined with renewable power and integrated into decentralised energy and production systems.

In contrast to conventional steam methane reforming, the core conversion reaction doesn’t need any water and separates the carbon contained in the feedstock as a solid material instead of converting it directly into carbon dioxide. The resulting hydrogen can be used as an energy carrier, process gas or industrial feedstock, while the properties and potential applications of the solid carbon can be evaluated for each specific process and feedstock.

The reactor platform is being developed for modular scale-up from laboratory and pilot systems towards industrial production capacities. Potential feedstocks include natural gas, biomethane, suitably conditioned biogas, plastics and other chemical compounds subject to application-specific testing and validation.

IMP supports customers from initial feedstock and feasibility testing through reactor layout, process optimisation, scale-up and integration into the overall production system.