Researchers have developed a plasma-electrochemical reactor that synthesizes ammonia (NH₃) directly from nitrogen in the air and water, without any carbon emissions.
This innovation emulates natural processes and is a step toward sustainable industrial ammonia production.
Key Features of the Reactor
Carbon-Free Process:
Uses air and water as inputs, eliminating fossil fuel dependency.
Operates without producing greenhouse gases.
Efficiency and Longevity:
Achieves a high ammonia production rate of ~1 gram/day.
Demonstrates operational durability of 1,000 hours at room temperature.
Industrial Competitiveness:
Represents a significant milestone in achieving industrial-scale green ammonia production.
Advances the feasibility of sustainable alternatives to the Haber-Bosch process, which is energy-intensive and carbon-heavy.
Significance of the Innovation
Ammonia is a crucial chemical for fertilizers and other applications but contributes to about 2% of global CO₂ emissions when produced conventionally.
A carbon-free production method could drastically reduce emissions from the fertilizer industry.
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