New catalyst process converts nitrate into fertilizer using renewable energy
As producers know, ammonia is an important ingredient used in fertilizers that help farmers grow crops. Experts estimate that ammonia production will need to increase significantly in the coming years to meet food demands. As the global population continues to grow, the demand for ammonia is increasing.
Traditionally, ammonia is produced using the Haber Bosch process. This method was developed more than a century ago and requires very high temperatures. It consumes a large amount of energy and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, making it harmful to the environment.
To address this issue, researchers from McMaster University have developed a new method to produce ammonia in a cleaner and faster way. Their process uses nitrate, which is a common water pollutant, and converts it into ammonia. This method uses renewable electricity instead of fossil fuels, making it more environmentally friendly.
The research team studied different versions of an iron-based catalyst at the Canadian Light Source, University of Saskatchewan. A catalyst is a material that helps speed up chemical reactions. By testing different combinations, they found a version that allowed nitrate to reach the catalyst more easily and convert into ammonia more efficiently.
The study was conducted by Dr Navid Noor during his PhD under the guidance of Dr Drew Higgins. The researchers focused on improving how the catalyst works, including how it transfers electrons and interacts with water. They found that the surface properties of the catalyst play an important role in the process. This study was published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society.
“When we dove deeper into this, we found out that the surface properties of the catalysts are playing a role. We had to find a material that delivers more electrons to our catalyst that also delivers more water to it,” said Dr. Noor.
Advanced techniques such as X ray absorption spectroscopy were used to understand how the catalysts perform. This helped the team improve their design and achieve better results.
Next steps, Noor says, test their findings under real world, industry-relevant conditions. “That would give us the benchmark to start sustainable ammonia production using electrochemical technologies.”
Photo Credit: Journal of the American Chemical Society