TECHNOLOGY LICENSING OPPORTUNITY Eco-Friendly Ammonia Production

TECHNOLOGY LICENSING OPPORTUNITY

Eco-Friendly Ammonia Production

This novel electrochemical process uses protonic ceramic cells at intermediate temperatures to produce green ammonia from steam and nitrogen, offering a sustainable and efficient alternative to the traditional Haber-Bosch process.

Overview:        Ammonia (NH3) production is pivotal for the agricultural, chemical, and pharmaceutical industries. Traditionally produced via the Haber-Bosch process, this method is energy-intensive and generates substantial CO2 emissions. The United States, a leading NH3 producer and consumer, is seeking sustainable solutions to reduce the environmental impact of ammonia production. A new process being developed at INL, uses Protonic Ceramic Electrochemical Membrane Reactor (PC-EMR) technology. This offers a transformative approach to NH3 production at intermediate temperatures (400-600°C), using steam and nitrogen as feedstocks. This technology aligns with the global shift towards a net-zero carbon economy and sustainable industrial processes.

Description:    The innovative process leverages a PC-EMR, consisting of a conductive protonic ceramic membrane and active catalysts for water oxidation and nitrogen reduction reactions. Operating at intermediate temperatures, it electrochemically splits steam into oxygen and protons at the anode, which then react with nitrogen at the cathode to form ammonia. This approach is distinct from traditional methods by its utilization of steam and nitrogen feedstocks[LW2]  and the elimination of high-pressure requirements. The process is driven by clean electricity and heat, significantly reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions compared to the Haber-Bosch process.

Benefits:          

• Reduced Carbon Emissions: Cuts CO2 emissions by at least 50% compared to the Haber-Bosch process.
• Energy Efficiency: Lowers energy consumption by at least 20%.
• Sustainable Feedstocks: Uses steam and nitrogen, avoiding fossil fuel dependency.
• Intermediate Operating Temperatures: Offers an optimal balance between thermodynamics and kinetics.
• Modularity: Suitable for distributed and non-fossil fuel-based production setups.

Applications:    

• Agricultural, chemical, and pharmaceutical industries for sustainable NH3 production.
• Marine transportation and power generation sectors seeking carbon-neutral liquid fuels.
• Renewable energy sectors utilizing clean electricity and heat for chemical synthesis.

Development Status:  Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 3: Analytical and experimental proof-of-concept demonstrated.

IP Status:         Provisional Patent Application No. 63/584,096, “Methods and Systems for Producing Ammonia, and Related Electrochemical Cells,” BEA Docket No. BA-1389.

Partner with Idaho National Laboratory (INL) for Access to Pioneering Technology and Mutual Growth

Managed by Battelle Energy Alliance, LLC, INL offers unique opportunities for businesses to access and license advanced technology. Our agreements are tailored to provide flexibility and affordability, particularly supporting small businesses in their growth and innovation endeavors. By licensing our intellectual property, you not only gain access to groundbreaking technology but also contribute to economic development and public welfare. We invite you to explore our technology portfolio, designed to give your organization a competitive edge in the market. Learn more about our licensing opportunities and the support we provide at: https://inl.gov/inl-initiatives/technology-deployment. For specific discussions on how your business can benefit, please contact Andrew Rankin at td@inl.gov.