New 2-liter ammonia-fueled engine developed, showing improved thermal efficiency and power output

A 2-liter engine utilizing ammonia, a renewable and zero-carbon energy source, has been developed. This groundbreaking technology is expected to serve as a foundational platform for various applications, including vehicles, ships, aircraft, and industrial power generators.

The Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials (KIMM), an institute under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Science and ICT, announced that it has developed the world’s first engine capable of directly injecting ammonia into the combustion chamber at high pressure, in collaboration with the Electrification Engineering Center of Hyundai Motor and Kia.

The new engine utilizes high-pressure liquid injection technology to address challenges associated with gaseous ammonia fuels, such as unstable power output and harmful emissions. This system ensures a stable supply of large volumes of ammonia fuel. By utilizing pure ammonia, the engine achieves a world-class specific output without requiring additional combustion-enhancing devices or additives.

The research team enhanced the engine’s performance by improving the ignition system and optimizing the timing of fuel injection and valve operation. Additionally, they developed a dedicated after-treatment system to minimize nitrogen oxides (NO_x) and unburnt ammonia emissions. As a result, the engine demonstrated significantly improved thermal efficiency and power output, while drastically reducing harmful emissions. These advancements highlight the potential of ammonia as a practical and efficient fuel for various applications.

Principal researcher Dr. Cheolwoong Park of KIMM emphasized, “This innovation represents a groundbreaking improvement over conventional ammonia engine technologies, introducing a new concept in power systems.” He highlighted its potential to transform mobility power sources and industrial power generation, particularly in the realm of clean hydrogen energy.

Principal researcher Dr. Seungwoo Lee of Hyundai Motor and Kia stated, “This engine technology could serve as a breakthrough in addressing the challenges of hydrogen transportation and green hydrogen production, establishing ammonia as a new clean fuel-based power solution.”