ExxonMobil and BASF Collaborate to Advance Low-Emission Hydrogen via Methane Pyrolysis Technology
November 17, 2025 – Baytown, Texas
ExxonMobil and BASF have announced a strategic partnership aimed at accelerating the development and commercial deployment of methane pyrolysis technology, a promising approach to producing low-emission hydrogen alongside solid carbon. This collaboration is a significant step forward in delivering efficient, cost-competitive hydrogen solutions for industrial applications, enhancing both companies’ portfolios in sustainable technology.
Driving Innovation Through Strategic Collaboration
ExxonMobil and BASF have signed a joint development agreement to co-develop methane pyrolysis technology, with plans to build a demonstration plant at ExxonMobil’s Baytown Complex in Texas. The plant will validate the technology’s performance at scale, with an annual production capacity of up to 2,000 tons of low-emission hydrogen and 6,000 tons of high-purity solid carbon.
“This collaboration combines the technological innovation and industrial expertise of ExxonMobil and BASF to accelerate the development of low-emission hydrogen,” said Mike Zamora, president of ExxonMobil Technology and Engineering Company. “Methane pyrolysis holds significant potential, especially in regions where traditional carbon capture and storage solutions face challenges. ExxonMobil brings decades of deep technical knowledge and a strong commitment to innovation.”
BASF has been advancing methane pyrolysis technology for over a decade, initially supported by the German Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR). Dr. Stephan Kothrade, BASF’s Chief Technology Officer and member of the Board of Executive Directors, emphasized the technology’s importance, stating: “This novel methane pyrolysis technology provides competitive low-emission hydrogen and has the potential to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of our product portfolio. By combining BASF’s process innovation with ExxonMobil’s scale-up capabilities, we are bringing this cost-efficient hydrogen solution closer to economically viable industrial deployment.”
What is Methane Pyrolysis?
Methane pyrolysis is an innovative process that uses electricity to break down natural gas—or alternatively bio-methane—into two valuable products: hydrogen and solid carbon. Unlike conventional hydrogen production methods such as steam methane reforming, methane pyrolysis does not produce process-related carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. The process also requires significantly less electrical energy than water electrolysis—approximately five times less—and does not require water as a resource.
By leveraging existing natural gas infrastructure, methane pyrolysis technology offers ease of deployment across various locations, making it particularly attractive in geographic areas where carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies are less feasible due to geological, technical, or policy constraints.
In addition to producing low-emission hydrogen—a critical clean energy carrier and chemical industry feedstock—the technology yields high-purity solid carbon. This carbon has diverse industrial applications, including steel and aluminum manufacturing, construction materials, and advanced carbon products such as battery components.
Demonstration Plant: Paving the Way for Commercial Scale
The upcoming demonstration facility at ExxonMobil’s Baytown Complex will be a pivotal milestone in bringing methane pyrolysis technology to commercial readiness. By producing thousands of tons of hydrogen and solid carbon annually, the plant will demonstrate the technology’s scalability and economic viability while supporting efforts to reduce industrial emissions.
Commitment to a Sustainable Energy Future
ExxonMobil’s broader hydrogen strategy is focused on delivering a range of solutions that accommodate different geographies and infrastructure realities. Methane pyrolysis complements ExxonMobil’s existing portfolio, reinforcing its commitment to scalable and globally deployable hydrogen technologies.
“We are building the future of hydrogen—one molecule at a time,” said Zamora, underscoring the company’s dedication to advancing climate solutions and sustainable energy technologies.
About ExxonMobil
ExxonMobil is one of the world’s largest publicly traded international energy and petrochemical companies. Its primary businesses—Upstream, Product Solutions, and Low Carbon Solutions—produce energy, chemicals, lubricants, and lower-emission technologies essential for modern life. The company also operates the largest CO2 pipeline network in the United States. For more information, visit exxonmobil.com and explore ExxonMobil’s Advancing Climate Solutions.
About BASF
BASF is a leading global chemical company committed to sustainability and enabling green transformation across multiple sectors. With approximately 112,000 employees, BASF combines economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility. The company’s portfolio spans Chemicals, Materials, Industrial Solutions, Nutrition & Care, Surface Technologies, and Agricultural Solutions. In 2024, BASF generated sales of €65.3 billion. For additional details, visit basf.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
This announcement includes forward-looking statements concerning future events, projects, investments, and partnerships. Actual outcomes may differ due to a variety of risks and uncertainties including operational challenges, regulatory developments, market conditions, and other factors outlined in ExxonMobil’s investor disclosures. The companies disclaim any obligation to revise such statements except as required by law.
For media inquiries and further details:
- ExxonMobil Public Affairs
- BASF Communications
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