[paladinkc]

The electrochemical conversion of ammonia to dinitrogen in a direct ammonia fuel cell (DAFC) is a necessary technology for the realization of a nitrogen economy. Previous efforts to catalyse this reaction with molecular complexes required the addition of exogenous oxidizing reagents or application of potentials greater than the thermodynamic potential for the oxygen reduction reaction—the cathodic process of a DAFC. We report a stable metal–metal bonded diruthenium complex that spontaneously produces dinitrogen from ammonia under ambient conditions. The resulting reduced diruthenium material can be reoxidized with oxygen for subsequent reactions with ammonia, demonstrating its ability to spontaneously promote both half-reactions necessary for a DAFC. The diruthenium complex also acts as a redox mediator for the electrocatalytic oxidation of ammonia to dinitrogen at potentials as low as −255 mV versus Fc0/+ and operates below the oxygen reduction reaction potential in alkaline conditions, thus achieving a thermodynamic viability relevant for the future development of DAFCs.

[paladinkc]

I thought this was an interesting article and thought we likely have a few scientist in our group of freepers that might be able to provide more insight into if this is something that is viable or will likely get swept under the rug

[Chainmail]

Sounds fascinating but Ammonia is not the most user-friendly substance, is it?

[cuban leaf]

Pee into the vat.

[The MAGA-Deplorian]

Great idea. Now either drill for mythical reserves in the ground, or since we only produce about 7% ammonia in the world, get ready for imports since China controls the largest exports at 32%. Focus on coal and natural gas and we can tell the world to F off for 500 years!

[Dave Wright]

The problem with replacing gasoline with ammonia is dictated by the laws of thermodynamics. It only contains about half the energy density of carbon-based fuels, so it costs more to produce and distribute the same amount of energy. The whole rationale for alternative fuels is to reduce the amount of carbon emission into the atmosphere that influences surface temperature, but this influence is negligible compared to atmospheric water vapor, solar cycle variations, and changes in the Earth’s tilt. More carbon equals more plant food. Warmer temperatures also increase the water vapor held in the atmosphere which further “greens” the planet and produces more oxygen.

[Steely Tom]

The X-15 rocket plane, first hypersonic manned aircraft, was powered by anhydrous (pure) ammonia and liquid oxygen.

[TChad]

Ammonia economy bump.

[jcon40]

PI NH3

[finnsheep]

Insane! First you have to make ammonia out of natural gas!