Sustainable Nitrogen Activation: Faraday Discussion

Industrial-scale ammonia synthesis, using the Haber-Bosch process, is a significant energy consumer and contributor to CO2 emissions. There is interest in developing more sustainable routes that utilize renewable energy, such as heterogeneous catalytic and chemical looping, electrocatalytic and photocatalytic routes, enzymatic N2 activation, and homogeneous N2 activation. These themes unite different research communities and emphasize the transfer of learning between them.

Format: Hardback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 07 August 2023
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry

The Haber-Bosch process, a groundbreaking achievement of the 20th century, revolutionized the production of ammonia on an industrial scale. However, the current practice of ammonia synthesis, encompassing feedstock generation, accounts for a substantial portion of global energy demand, contributing to significant fossil-fuel-based CO2 emissions. As a result, there is a growing interest in developing more sustainable ammonia synthesis routes that can be operated locally, utilizing renewable energy sources.

The five themes of this Faraday Discussion bring together diverse research communities around a topic of mutual interest and societal significance. With a particular focus on knowledge transfer between these themes, the discussion delves into the following areas:

Heterogeneous catalytic and chemical looping routes to N2 activation: These routes involve the utilization of catalysts and chemicals to efficiently convert N2 into ammonia. They offer potential alternatives to the conventional Haber-Bosch process, which relies on high temperatures and pressures.

Electrocatalytic and photocatalytic routes to N2 activation: These methods employ electrochemical or photochemical reactions to activate N2, utilizing renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power. They offer the advantage of high energy conversion efficiencies and reduced environmental impact compared to traditional chemical processes.

Enzymatic N2 activation: Enzymes, which are biological catalysts, can be used to activate N2 into ammonia. This approach harnesses the natural capabilities of enzymes and offers the potential for sustainable and efficient ammonia production.

Homogeneous N2 activation: Homogeneous activation refers to the direct conversion of N2 into ammonia using homogeneous catalysts. This approach eliminates the need for separate feedstock generation and separation steps, making it more cost-effective and environmentally friendly.

Alternative routes to NH3 and its applications: This theme explores alternative routes to NH3 production, including the use of hydrogen gas, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen-fixing microorganisms. NH3 is a valuable commodity used in various industries, including fertilizer production, food processing, and refrigerants.

By exploring these themes, the Faraday Discussion aims to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange among researchers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders, contributing to the development of more sustainable and environmentally friendly ammonia synthesis routes. These routes have the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, mitigate the impact of climate change, and promote the transition to a cleaner and more sustainable energy system.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781837670901