Hydrogen ionic conductors and ammonia conversions

Abstract

Electrochemical and catalytic conversion to and from ammonia is strongly enhanced by appropriate choice of hydrogen conducting electrolyte or substrate. Here we explore both protonic and hydride ionic conductors in relation to ammonia conversions. Protonic conductors tend to require too high a temperature to achieve sufficient hydrogen flux for ammonia synthesis as thermal decomposition competes strongly. Conversely protonic conductors are well suited to direct ammonia fuel cell use. Hydride ions can be very mobile and are strongly reducing. Alkaline hydride lattices can exhibit facile H and N mobility and exchange and offer a very promising basis for ammonia conversion and synthesis.