A technological roadmap to the ammonia energy economy: Current state and missing technologies

Abstract

Ammonia is considered a key energy carrier with potential applications for low carbon energy storage, transportation and power generation. This carbon-free molecule offers several advantages, including high energy density and a well-established production and distribution infrastructure that have been optimized for over a century. In this perspective, we analyze the potential roles of ammonia as an energy carrier, and summarize research areas requiring further development for the implementation of ammonia as a building block in the global low-carbon energy landscape. Ammonia technologies are reviewed with an emphasis on current limitations and recent advances. Focus is placed on available technologies for ammonia synthesis, decomposition into COx-free hydrogen and direct use of ammonia for power generation and transportation.