Johnson Matthey’s eMERALDTM  CO₂ to methanol technology is paving the way in sustainable methanol synthesis. Delivering up to a 143% reduction in carbon emissions, eMERALD allows you to make e-methanol for longer with fewer interruptions, lower costs, and greater reliability.

 

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E-methanol: a fuel for the future 

Reaching net zero targets requires significant decarbonisation. As industries transition to cleaner energy, e-methanol is emerging as a critical low-carbon fuel or low-carbon intermediate for reducing emissions in hard-to-abate sectors like shipping, aviation, automotive and heavy transport. 

With the International Maritime Organization (IMO) targeting a reduction in carbon intensity of international shipping by at least 40% by 2030 and at least 5% zero/near-zero emission fuel use by 2030, the demand for e-methanol is rising. 

JM’s CO₂ to methanol technology reduces the levelised cost of methanol production by 9%, making large-scale adoption more economically viable. As demand accelerates, our technology enhances efficiency and provides proven reliability, backed by decades of expertise.

Proven technology for your CO2 to methanol plant 

Johnson Matthey has been commercialising its CO₂ to methanol technology since 2011. Our eMERALD process provides a reliable solution to produce e-methanol at close to 100% conversion, from electrolytic H2 and captured CO2. Ensuring exceptional performance, enhanced efficiency, and lower carbon intensity when compared to conventional reforming. 

At the heart of our solution is our specially formulated eMERALD 201 catalyst, designed for superior hydrothermal stability. Shutdowns can be expensive, potentially unsafe and disruptive. Our catalyst allows our customers' plant to continue running for longer, and with higher yields to reduce costly and unsafe downtime.  

Chosen for several groundbreaking projects, including the Hanu Oni project in Chile, where eMERALD CO₂ to methanol technology successfully supports the world’s first operational e-fuels facility - converting wind energy into methanol. JM licensed its technology and supplied the catalyst to the demo plant which operated for over 12 months, producing e-methanol that is further processed into gasoline. 

eMERALD CO2 to methanol process by Johnson Matthey

   

   Discover our e-methanol catalysts

Why choose eMERALD CO₂ to methanol technology?

eMERALD CO₂ to methanol technology reduces the levelised cost of methanol production by 9%* making projects more bankable and scalable. Other key benefits include
  • ~99% carbon and hydrogen efficiency, resulting in maximum feedstock utilisation to drive profitability.
  • Our specifically formulated catalyst with enhanced hydrothermal stability, allows you to make methanol for longer with fewer interruptions, lower costs, and greater reliability.  
  • Tailored designs for a wide range of capacities and product quality requirements.
  • Utilizing integrating advanced energy recovery systems to deliver maximum methanol output with minimal input- reducing operating costs while ensuring sustainable, reliable production 
  • Commercially proven converter technology at a range of scales
  • Low-risk, proven and easy to operate

A renewable alternative to conventional methanol

E-methanol is ready to be deployed today. From shipping to aviation and automative, its potential is vast.  

  • Sustainable fuels – e-methanol is a key feedstock for producing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and can be blended with gasoline to reduce carbon emissions in road transport. 

  • Shipping and marine fuel – As a low-carbon alternative to conventional marine fuels, e-methanol helps the shipping industry meet stringent emissions regulations. 

  • Chemical and plastics Industry – e-methanol serves as a building block for various chemicals, providing more sustainable production of plastics, resins, and other materials. 

Find out how JM is delivering an integrated, high-yield methanol-to-jet fuel, in an innovative partnership with Honeywell UOP.  

 

Learn about our methanol to jet offering

Your partner for e-methanol production 

eMERALD CO₂ to methanol technology is making decarbonisation a reality. Leveraging 60 years of methanol expertise, 100+ licensed plants, and #1 position in licensed and installed capacity, JM is the perfect partner for your e-methanol project. 

 

Speak to our licensing team today 

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