The focus area 'Syngas and SNG' develops (licenses) technologies, supports implementation and acts as consultant in the field of gasification and gas cleaning.

Syngas
Syngas or synthesis gas contains mainly hydrogen and carbon monoxide. It is an intermediate product for the production of chemicals and transportation fuels such as methanol, Fischer-Tropsch liquids, ammonia, hydrogen. Synthesis gas normally is produced by gasification of coal or natural gas. If synthesis gas is produced from biomass, it is called BioSyngas.

SNG
Natural gas is a well known energy carrier. It often is used for the production of heat and power, but can also be used as fuel in the transport sector. Biomass can be converted into a gas very similar to natural gas. This is called BioSNG (Substitute Natural Gas, mainly methane), which can substitute natural gas. BioSNG also is called Green Gas or biomethane.

BioSyngas and BioSNG
BioSyngas and BioSNG are made from biomass. Since biomass is a renewable energy source, the products are CO₂-neutral or even beyond that. Since BioSyngas and BioSNG both resemble current fossil-fuel based energy carriers, it enables an easy and smooth transition to a more sustainable energy structure. ECN develops technologies for the production of BioSyngas and BioSNG. Both rely on gasification as the principal conversion process.

Frequently asked questions

Here you find the answers on frequently asked questions related to Syngas and SNG.