Rob Hanson, CEO of Monolith, aims to create emissions-free hydrogen at scale and a competitive price using the world's largest plasma torch. They discuss the environmental impact of fertilizer production and the need for carbon-free alternatives. The trade-offs between cheaper and cleaner solutions, like PV solar, are explored. They also delve into their progress and plans for a proof of concept plant, along with the concept of deep time and the monolith's potential as an CO2-free energy transfer solution.
Monolith aims to create hydrogen without emissions using a large plasma torch, which could revolutionize fertilizer production and reduce carbon emissions in agriculture.
Hydrogen has the potential to fuel industries like heavy transportation and steel manufacturing, with Monolith exploring opportunities for cheap and sustainable hydrogen at scale.
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The Problem with Fertilizer Production and Climate Change
Traditional methods of producing fertilizer result in the release of large amounts of carbon dioxide, contributing to climate change. Monolith, a company founded by Rob Hanson, aims to solve this problem by developing a process to separate hydrogen from natural gas without emitting carbon dioxide. This innovative approach could revolutionize fertilizer production and significantly reduce carbon emissions in the agriculture industry.
Scaling Up the Production of Carbon Black and Hydrogen
Monolith has successfully developed a commercial-scale reactor that produces carbon black and hydrogen. The carbon black is already being sold to companies for various applications. However, the hydrogen production is still in the early stages, with plans to expand the production capacity by building 12 additional reactors. This expansion will enable Monolith to enter the hydrogen market and potentially contribute to sectors such as heavy transportation and steel production.
Challenges and Potential of Hydrogen as an Energy Source
Hydrogen has the potential to fuel various industries, including heavy transportation and steel manufacturing. Its use can greatly reduce carbon emissions compared to traditional methods. However, challenges remain, such as accessing cheap and sustainable hydrogen at scale and finding viable applications. Monolith continues to explore these opportunities, recognizing the potential growth of the hydrogen market in the coming years.
Selling hydrogen to make fertilizer is a huge business. It also drives tons of carbon emissions. Rob Hanson, the co-founder and CEO of a company called Monolith is trying to create hydrogen without emissions -- and to do it at scale, at a competitive price. A key tool he’s using: The biggest plasma torch ever built.