Modern Electron

About Modern Electron

Modern Electron, which now operates as Modern Hydrogen, was established in 2015 by co-founders Tony Pan (CEO) and Max Mankin (CTO). The company originated at Intellectual Ventures, an innovation hub supported by figures like Bill Gates. Pan and Mankin, both Hertz Foundation fellows, combined their expertise to address challenges in the energy sector. Pan holds a PhD in physics from Harvard and a BS from Stanford, with prior experience as a strategist at Goldman Sachs. Mankin, who also earned his PhD from Harvard, has a background in physical chemistry and materials engineering. Their shared vision was to develop technology for hard-to-decarbonize sectors affordably.

The company is focused on decarbonizing gas networks through distributed hydrogen production. It develops and deploys methane pyrolysis reactors that convert natural gas from fossil fuels or biogas into clean-burning hydrogen and a solid carbon byproduct. This process, known as concurrent combustion methane pyrolysis, uses natural gas and air as inputs to produce hydrogen on-site, eliminating the need for costly new pipeline infrastructure. The firm's business model targets industrial and commercial clients who rely on natural gas for heat and power, such as gas utilities, manufacturers, and heavy equipment operators. By providing hydrogen at the point of use, Modern Hydrogen enables these clients to reduce carbon emissions and enhance energy resiliency.

The core technology consists of compact, on-site hydrogen generators. These units heat natural gas to split the carbon and hydrogen bonds, yielding hydrogen gas and solid carbon. The resulting hydrogen can be used as a clean fuel for industrial process heat, steam generation, and fuel cells. A key feature is the production of a solid carbon material, often called carbon black, instead of gaseous CO2. This solid carbon can be sequestered and repurposed for various applications, including asphalt, tires, rubber, ink, and construction materials, creating an additional value stream. The company has established pilot projects with utility partners to demonstrate the technology's effectiveness in real-world settings.