Developed by Cambridge-based Levidian, LOOP uses a patented low temperature, low pressure process to crack methane into its constituent atoms, hydrogen and carbon, without the need for catalysts or additives. The hydrogen can be used immediately as part of a low-carbon gas blend to support industrial decarbonisation, while the graphene can be used to improve the performance of a wide range of materials including consumer electronics and sporting goods.
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The deployment at Eco Group marks not only the UK’s first LOOP instalment, but also the first LOOP installation anywhere in the world that incorporates fully integrated hydrogen separation. Following the initial deployment of the LOOP10 system at Eco’s HQ at Annan, Dumfries and Galloway, the firm has committed to working with clients and partners to deploy more than 60 larger LOOP1000 units across Scotland and beyond over the next five years. According to Levidian, a single LOOP1000 reduces CO2 equivalent (CO2e) by approximately 2,400 tonnes per year.
“Levidian’s agreement with Eco Group will see our first LOOP with fully integrated hydrogen separation deployed in Scotland,” said Levidian CEO John Hartley.
“LOOP will be a powerful tool for industrial decarbonisation and fits in well with Scotland’s green ambitions – we’re looking forward to working with Eco to deploy LOOPs and integrate graphene to help us drive towards net zero.”
Levidian says the hydrogen produced by the first LOOP10 demonstration unit at Eco will be used for R&D projects across multiple areas. Eco Group will also act as a distributor of graphene, focusing on R&D applications for its use as an advanced additive in the aerospace, automotive, 3D printing, textiles, and energy sectors.
“We are delighted to enter into our new partnership with Levidian and deploy this pioneering technology in the south of Scotland,” said Eco Group MD, Eddie Black.
“Our partnership has the potential to transform our region and to lead in decarbonisation. This technology will not only create green jobs, it will also demonstrate to industry leaders the opportunities to decarbonise their organisations and sectors while leading the way on innovation, in addition to making positive impacts on net zero aspirations through carbon reduction, new technology deployment and more sustainable materials.”
The deployment was backed by South of Scotland Enterprise and assisted with a grant of £331,000.
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