Nitrogen Rejection Units Market

The nitrogen rejection units market is anticipated to grow from USD 1.80 billion in 2024 to USD 2.30 billion by 2029 with a CAGR of 5.0% during 2024-2029. A Nitrogen Rejection Unit (NRU) refers to a specialized gas-processing system that removes nitrogen from natural gas. Nitrogen is generally an abundant component in natural gas, which can dilute the energy contained in the gas and subsequently influence its commercial value negatively. NRUs work by selectively isolating nitrogen from the stream of gas, hence resulting in an increase in the hydrocarbon concentration, specifically useful hydrocarbons such as methane, with a higher energy content. NRUs utilize various technologies, like membrane separation, pressure swing adsorption, or distillation, according to the characteristics of the gas and the purity level necessary for it. By decreasing nitrogen content, NRUs make the natural gas better quality, thus increasing the viability of transportation, storage, and usage.

In the technology type, the nitrogen rejection units market is segregated into Cryogenic NRU, and membrane-based NRU. Cryogenic NRU functions by cooling the natural gas to very low temperatures, during which nitrogen and hydrocarbons liquefy at different temperatures. Nitrogen is thus separated from the gas itself since it has a higher boiling point than methane, therefore removing it from the gas stream. Membrane-based NRU employs selective permeable membranes that allow nitrogen to permeate at a faster rate than hydrocarbons. In the process, the gas is pressurized and passed through the membrane, thus causing the separation of nitrogen and leaving behind a gas stream rich in methane and other valuable hydrocarbons. The compact design and lower energy consumption of the membrane-based NRUs are the reasons for the preference of membrane-based in small-scale applications.

In the Process segment, the nitrogen rejection units market is segregated into single column, double column, partitioned column, and others. Single column NRUs employs one distillation column to separate nitrogen from natural gas. It is economical, suitable for small installations with a moderate range of nitrogen content. A double-column NRU takes advantage of the higher efficiency and less energy consumption, by employing two distillation columns, operating at different pressures. This configuration is well-suited for larger-scale operations and natural gas streams with lower nitrogen content. Partitioned column NRUs utilize the properties of both single and double column designs. These can provide flexibility with enhanced performance. Such columns are the most suited applications when the feed gas compositions are changing, and in the optimum energy consumption with regard to specific applications.

In the Application segment, the nitrogen rejection units market is segregated into liquified Natural Gas, and Renewable Natural Gas. Both LNG and RNG often have a high percentage of nitrogen and other impurities. LNG and RNG use NRUs for selective removal of nitrogen so that these gases meet the energy content and transport efficiency requirements. In addition, NRUs are critical for the optimization of the energy value of the gas, ensuring regulatory compliance, and improving overall process efficiency.

A few of the players operating in the nitrogen rejection units market include Linde plc (Ireland), Air Liquide (France), ConocoPhillips (US), Honeywell International Inc. (US), Chart Industries (US) among others.