Porto spin-off HyCarb brings breakthrough hydrogen technology to market

Innovative solution positions Porto at the forefront of energy transition

U. Porto · 17 Mar 2026

HyCarb, a spin-off from the Faculdade de Engenharia da Universidade do Porto (FEUP), is bringing to market a disruptive technology for clean hydrogen production, reinforcing Porto’s position within the global energy innovation landscape.

The company has developed a patented solution based on intermediate-temperature catalytic methane splitting (IT-CMS), a highly efficient process that produces hydrogen without direct CO₂ emissions, while simultaneously generating high-value graphitic carbon. When applied to biomethane, the technology can even achieve a negative carbon footprint, contributing to carbon removal.

Co-founded by Adélio Mendes, Professor at Faculdade de Engenharia da Universidade do Porto (FEUP), and Paula Dias, the company builds on a strong scientific foundation and a track record of European research initiatives, including projects supported by the European Innovation Council. As Adélio Mendes notes, "We felt it was our responsibility, given the extremely promising nature of the technology, to bring it to market. That is what led us to create HyCarb […] and, if possible, to competitively contribute to the decarbonisation of the atmosphere.”

As a recognised FEUP spin-off, HyCarb benefits from close ties to the university’s innovation environment, combining advanced research capabilities with highly qualified talent. The company is currently focused on developing its first pilot unit, positioning itself as a relevant player in the global transition towards decarbonised energy systems.

Porto spin-off HyCarb brings breakthrough hydrogen technology to market

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