Recent advances and intensifications in Haber-Bosch ammonia synthesis process

Abstract

Ammonia is crucial as it serves as a key nitrogen source in fertilizer production to enhance crop growth and as an emerging energy carrier due to its high hydrogen content and ease of liquefaction. Despite various technological changes proposed and implemented since its inception, the Haber-Bosch process remains the predominant method for ammonia production. We first give a bird's eye view of current ammonia synthesis technologies available based on the latest trends, to justify why we think the conventional Haber-Bosch process is still a relevant technology worth investigation for further improvement. We review the engineering design modifications within the ammonia synthesis loop, examining improvements in the efficiency of ammonia synthesis. This review gives an overview of recent research and advancements focused on process intensification within the loop and its individual key components, i.e., the reactor and the catalyst, separation, and purge gas recovery technologies. It highlights significant progress and explores potential future directions in these areas.