South SFV Today

Researchers from Stanford University and King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals have developed a prototype device capable of producing ammonia, a crucial fertilizer component, using wind energy. This innovation could potentially replace the traditional method of ammonia production that relies on combining nitrogen and hydrogen at high pressures and temperatures, which consumes 2% of global energy and contributes to 1% of annual carbon dioxide emissions.

The study, published in Science Advances on December 13, showcased the first demonstration of this technology outside a laboratory setting. The researchers aim to integrate the device into irrigation systems, allowing farmers to produce fertilizer directly from the air. "This breakthrough allows us to harness the nitrogen in our air and produce ammonia sustainably," said Richard Zare, senior author of the study and professor at Stanford.

Agriculture accounts for about one-third of all greenhouse gas emissions globally, according to the UN Environment Programme. The new method could significantly reduce these emissions by eliminating the need for conventional ammonia production methods.

The research team examined various environmental factors such as humidity, wind speed, salt levels, acidity, water droplet size, solution concentration, and contact with non-dissolving materials to optimize ammonia production. They identified an ideal mix of iron oxide and an acid polymer with fluorine and sulfur as catalysts for producing ammonia efficiently.

The process involves passing air through a catalyst-coated mesh to facilitate reactions at room temperature and standard atmospheric pressure without external voltage sources. This setup enables farmers to use portable devices onsite rather than relying on purchased fertilizers.

"This approach significantly reduces the carbon footprint of ammonia production," stated Xiaowei Song, lead author and chemistry research scientist at Stanford. Laboratory tests showed potential for recycling water through a spraying system to achieve adequate ammonia concentrations for greenhouse fertilization within two hours.

According to Chanbasha Basheer from King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, co-author of the study, the device is expected to be market-ready in two to three years. In preparation for broader agricultural applications, researchers plan further development using larger mesh systems.

Ammonia's significance extends beyond fertilizers; it can also serve as a clean energy carrier due to its higher energy density compared to hydrogen gas. "Green ammonia represents a new frontier in sustainability," Zare noted. If scaled economically, this method could substantially decrease reliance on fossil fuels across multiple sectors.

Co-authors include Jinheng Xu from Stanford's School of Humanities and Sciences. The study received funding from the U.S. Air Force Office of Scientific Research and King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals.

For media inquiries: Marijane Leonard at marijane.leonard@stanford.edu