ExxonMobil and BASF Join Forces for Low-Emission Hydrogen Breakthrough

2025-11-18 technology

Texas, Tuesday, 18 November 2025.
ExxonMobil and BASF are advancing methane pyrolysis, creating low-emission hydrogen and solid carbon. This tech requires less energy, promising a greener hydrogen future.

Innovative Collaboration Unveiled

ExxonMobil and BASF have announced a strategic partnership to advance methane pyrolysis technology, producing low-emission hydrogen and solid carbon. This collaboration is poised to revolutionise the hydrogen production landscape by significantly reducing energy usage and emissions compared to traditional methods like steam-methane reforming [1][2].

Technological Advantages

Methane pyrolysis stands out by using electricity to convert natural gas into hydrogen and solid carbon without generating CO2 emissions. It’s five times more energy-efficient than water electrolysis and requires no water, making it a competitive alternative to other hydrogen production methods [3][4].

Demonstration Plant Plans

The partnership plans to build a demonstration plant at ExxonMobil’s Baytown, Texas complex, capable of producing up to 2,000 tonnes of low-emission hydrogen and 6,000 tonnes of solid carbon annually. This facility aims to validate the technology at scale and push it towards commercial readiness [5][6].

Economic and Environmental Impact

By harnessing methane pyrolysis, ExxonMobil and BASF aim to deliver a cost-competitive hydrogen solution that aligns with global decarbonisation goals. This technology not only addresses energy efficiency but also reduces the carbon footprint of hydrogen production, contributing positively to the hydrogen economy [7][8].

Future Prospects

The collaboration between ExxonMobil and BASF highlights the potential of methane pyrolysis to transform industrial hydrogen production. As the world seeks sustainable energy solutions, this initiative represents a significant step towards reducing industrial carbon emissions and achieving energy sustainability [9][10].

Bronnen

methane pyrolysis low-emission hydrogen