Breaking the Barrier: Low-Temp Ammonia Synthesis with Iron Catalysts and Barium Hydride

The Haber-Bosch (HB) process produces ammonia in the presence of an iron catalyst at high temperatures and pressures, making it energy intensive. Therefore, developing new catalysts that enable the HB process at lower temperatures is crucial. In this regard, researchers from Tokyo Tech recently prepared metallic iron nanoparticles mixed with barium oxide and electron donor barium hydride, which enhance the catalytic activity for ammonia production at temperatures as low as 100°C.