EU-funded TITAN validates biogas-to-hydrogen process with solid carbon output

The EU-funded TITAN project has validated a microwave-based process for converting raw biogas into hydrogen-rich gas and solid carbon, Biofuels Central reported. Backed by Horizon Europe, the project is approaching the end of its 48-month research programme, with its official closure scheduled for 31 August 2026.

The technology reached Technology Readiness Level 5, operating steadily under conditions representative of real biogas streams. According to the report, methane conversion exceeded 85% and performance remained consistent across repeated operating cycles. By bringing several reaction stages together in one system, the process reduces the requirement for further gas treatment and separation.

Researchers also examined possible uses for the iron-carbon material generated by the process. Tests found no significant adverse effects on the soil microorganisms and fauna studied. Carbon-tracing work showed that very little of the material broke down in soil, suggesting potential for long-term carbon storage rather than establishing its performance across all agricultural applications.

Project estimates put hydrogen production costs at about €4.5/kg for large facilities, potentially falling to around €3.9/kg where electricity is inexpensive. Biofuels Central reported that these estimates indicated potential cost competitiveness with renewable hydrogen made through water electrolysis. Across the scenarios examined, the TITAN process yielded 51–57 grams of hydrogen per kilowatt-hour of electricity, against approximately 20 grams for water electrolysis.

The project roadmap outlined potential hydrogen production of up to 0.6 million tonnes annually by 2030, increasing to almost 4 million tonnes a year from 2045. It also estimated that cumulative greenhouse gas savings could reach 237 million tonnes of CO₂ by 2045. These figures represent project projections, rather than demonstrated commercial output.

TITAN identified legislative recognition of biohydrogen as renewable hydrogen as one measure that could support deployment. It also highlighted the need for regulatory frameworks governing solid carbon use in agriculture and carbon storage. The research was intended to help reduce emissions in hard-to-decarbonise sectors, particularly agriculture, while expanding renewable hydrogen supply for industry, transport and energy systems.