Electrochemical Ammonia Synthesis and Ammonia Fuel Cells

Jiao, Feng; Xu, Bingjun

doi:10.1002/adma.201805173

Electrochemical Ammonia Synthesis and Ammonia Fuel Cells

Journal Article · Wed Dec 19 00:00:00 EST 2018 · Advanced Materials

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1002/adma.201805173· OSTI ID:1612618

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Univ. of Delaware, Newark, DE (United States). Center for Catalytic Science and Technology; DOE/OSTI
Univ. of Delaware, Newark, DE (United States). Center for Catalytic Science and Technology

Ammonia is a promising platform molecule for the future renewable energy infrastructure owing to its high energy density (when liquefied) and carbon-free nature. In particular, the interconversion between the chemical and electrical energies leveraging the nitrogen cycle could be an effective approach in mitigating the intermittency of renewable electricity production. However, efficient methods to store and release energy into and from ammonia, respectively, are still under development. In this work, the latest developments in electrochemical ammonia synthesis and ammonia fuel cells are presented, and perspectives in the technical challenges and possible remedies are outlined. N₂ electrolysis, plasma-enabled N₂ activation, and electro-thermochemical looping are three potential approaches for electrochemical ammonia synthesis; however, achieving high selectivity and energy efficiency remains challenging. Direct ammonia fuel cells are suitable for a broad range of mobile and transportation applications but are limited by the lack of active catalysts for ammonia oxidation.

View Accepted Manuscript (DOE)

Research Organization:: Univ. of Delaware, Newark, DE (United States)

Sponsoring Organization:: USDOE; USDOE Office of Science (SC)

Grant/Contract Number:: SC0016537

OSTI ID:: 1612618

Alternate ID(s):: OSTI ID: 1488356

Journal Information:: Advanced Materials, Journal Name: Advanced Materials Journal Issue: 31 Vol. 31; ISSN 0935-9648

Publisher:: WileyCopyright Statement

Country of Publication:: United States

Language:: English

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