Scientists Harness Lightning to Create Green Ammonia from Air

University of Sydney researchers have used human-made lightning to develop a more efficient method of generating ammonia, a key chemical used in fertilizers and food production. The research aims to create 'green ammonia' in gas form, which is more energy-efficient compared to previous methods. The current process of producing ammonia has a significant carbon footprint and relies on the Haber-Bosch process, which needs to be done on a large scale near natural gas sources.

The team's new method involves using plasma and electrolysis to convert air into gaseous ammonia. This approach is seen as a step towards sustainable and decentralized production of ammonia. Ammonia, with its hydrogen content, can also be used as an energy carrier and source, making it a potential carbon-free fuel option.

Professor PJ Cullen and his team are focused on making 'green ammonia' production more energy-efficient and competitive. Their research, published in Angewandte Chemie International Edition, highlights a new pathway for producing green and sustainable ammonia.

According to the source: Phys.org.