Researchers at the Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT) in South Korea have developed a novel cobalt-iron (CoFe)-based catalyst for ammonia decomposition, aiming to advance eco-friendly hydrogen production. By incorporating cerium oxide (CeO2) into the CoFe-based layered double oxide (LDO) structure, the research team led by Dr. Su-Un Lee and Dr. Ho-Jeong Chae achieved high ammonia decomposition efficiency at lower temperatures. This innovation addresses the challenges posed by high-temperature decomposition processes typically required for extracting hydrogen from ammonia. The new catalyst offers advantages such as preventing particle agglomeration and enhancing catalytic properties through Ce3+/Ce4+ redox transitions. Furthermore, it optimizes the rate-determining step in ammonia decomposition, leading to a remarkable 81.9% conversion efficiency at 450°C, surpassing previous non-noble metal catalysts. Long-term stability tests demonstrated the catalyst's structural integrity and efficiency even after prolonged operation at 550°C. The team's goal is to further enhance low-temperature hydrogen production efficiency, with plans for commercialization by 2030. Dr. Su-Un Lee highlighted the potential applications of the catalyst in large-scale ammonia-based hydrogen production, hydrogen power plants, fueling stations, and maritime industries, emphasizing its role in enabling carbon-free hydrogen production.