Catalytic Methods for Purification of Exhaust Gases Produced by Ammonia-Fueled Engines

Abstract

Ammonia is a potential fuel for use in engines. Burning of ammonia does not result in the CO_x formation, and therefore, ammonia could be classified as a sustainable fuel. On the other hand, in this case, exhaust gases may contain significant amounts of unburned ammonia and nitrogen oxides (including N₂O) as pollutants. The problem of the possible catalytic systems for exhaust gases purification is analyzed and discussed, mainly with respect to the application of catalytic processes for NO_x, N₂O, and ammonia conversions. The various types of catalysts operating under condtions of exhaust gases (e.g., temperature and composition) were compared and the most promissing catalytic systems were proposed. Attention was mainly focused on the use of pure ammonia as a fuel, although some issues relating to the combustion of mixed fuels, such as ammonia - hydrocarbon fuels as well as ammonia - hydrogen (H₂ obtained by catalytic decomposition of ammonia) were also presented and discussed.