IGNITE - Innovative Gas-to-X Technologies for Net-zero Impact and Transformative Energy

The IGNITE project advances next-generation pathways for clean fuel production through gas valorization. It integrates methane reforming, ammonia and ethane cracking, subsurface hydrogen (Gold Hydrogen), and plasma-assisted processes to generate sustainable hydrogen and syngas as precursors for synthetic fuels. The project addresses pressing challenges in current reforming technologies, including high energy demand, catalyst deactivation from coke deposition and sintering, and reliance on expensive noble metals. By combining experimental catalyst development, atomistic modeling, system-scale testing, and technoeconomic and life-cycle assessments, IGNITE provides a holistic framework for technology readiness and deployment. The research emphasizes low-cost and stable nickel-supported activated carbon and hydrotalcite catalysts, enhanced through promoter doping. The project will deliver scalable catalyst designs, optimized reactor operation, and integrated ammonia-to-hydrogen systems coupled with fuel cell technologies for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). With strong national and international collaborations, IGNITE supports Qatar’s energy diversification strategy and contributes to global decarbonization efforts by transforming GAS into value-added products while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU)