Sustainable Chemistry (Jun 2024)

Ammonia Can Be Currently Considered One of the Best Green Energy Allies

  • Rubén González,
  • Xiomar Gómez

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/suschem5020012
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 5, no. 2
pp. 163 – 195

Abstract

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Ammonia can be considered a relevant compound in the future energy sector, playing a significant role as an energy carrier, storage, or carbon-free fuel. However, the production of this molecule has a high energy demand, and the use of natural gas, which is not free of controversy due to the accidental leakage into the atmosphere produced during extraction and the fact that it is a nonrenewable source, contributes to increasing greenhouse gas emissions. Reducing the process’s energy demand and carbon footprint will be essential to making ammonia a clear alternative for a carbon-free economy. Given the vast research in ammonia production and handling, this gas seems to be the logical step forward in the evolution of the energy sector. However, the current uncertainty in the global market requires cautiousness in decision making. Several factors may impact economic growth and human welfare, thus needing a careful assessment before making any transcendental decisions that could affect worldwide energy prices and raw material availability.

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