The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has developed a new method for producing ammonia, which could challenge the industry's long-standing reliance on a century-old process, OilPrice.com reported. This traditional method is largely powered by fossil fuels, contributing significantly to global energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
Ammonia production accounts for approximately 2% of the world's energy usage and generates about 1.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions. The industry produces around 200 million metric tons of ammonia annually, according to the source publication.
A substantial portion of this output, roughly 80%, is utilized in nitrogen fertilizers. The remaining ammonia is directed towards the manufacturing of plastics, textiles, explosives, and various other industrial chemicals.
The new method developed by MIT researchers incorporates artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum-mechanical principles. This innovative approach seeks to offer a more efficient and environmentally friendly alternative to current production techniques, as detailed by OilPrice.com.
