Recent advances in plasma-enabled ammonia synthesis: state-of-the-art, challenges, and outlook
Xin Zeng, Shuai Zhang, Xiucui Hu, Cheng Zhang, Kostya Ostrikov, Tao Shao
Abstract
diagnostics evidences the importance of specific intermediate species and reaction pathways. Electrons, vibrationally-excited species, free radicals, and surface-adsorbed species play important roles in plasma-catalytic ammonia synthesis. Combined with experiments and simulations, the mechanisms of plasma-catalytic ammonia synthesis are examined. Vibrationally-excited species can effectively reduce the catalytic surface energy barrier. The techno-economics of the plasma-enabled ammonia synthesis technology is discussed in view of its competitive advantages. It is emphasized that the power-to-chemicals approach can be adapted for most chemical manufacturers, and these methods would play crucial roles in reducing carbon emissions and environmental pollution. Finally, suggestions are provided for the sustainable development of the power-to-chemicals industry in the future.