Nitric oxide utilization for ammonia production using solid electrolysis cell at atmospheric pressure

Electrochemical ammonia (NH3) production, an alternative to the energy-intensive Haber process, has been extensively studied based on the basis of N-2 fixation; a high-yield production is hindered by the sluggish kinetics of the N-2 reduction reaction (N2RR) process originating from the strong triple bonds. Thus, several studies have primarily focused on discovering efficient catalysts for the N2RR. However, the development of a rate-limiting dissociation of N-2 remains a major challenge. In this study, we propose a simple strategy to improve the electrochemical NH3 production rate by using an oxygen ionic conducting ceramic-based electrolysis cell and nitric oxide (NO), which has a lower bonding energy in comparison to N-2. A maximum value of the NH3 synthesis rate of 1885 mu mol cm(-2) h(-1) (Faradaic efficiency of 34.8%) with a negligible thermal decomposition rate of 0.16% was achieved at 650 degrees C under atmospheric conditions. This study demonstrated an alternative approach for NO-based electrochemical NH3 production as well as the efficient utilization of NO, which is harmful to the environment.

Automated summary

This study proposed a simple strategy to improve the electrochemical NH3 production rate by using an oxygen ionic conducting ceramic-based electrolysis cell and nitric oxide. It achieved a high NH3 synthesis rate and Faradaic efficiency, demonstrating an alternative approach for NO-based electrochemical NH3 production with efficient utilization of NO.