Ammonia (NH₃) – this simple compound plays a pivotal role in our food systems, economy, and energy future. It has long driven major transformations in agriculture and industry, being widely used in the production of fertilisers, water purification, refrigerants, chemicals, and textiles. Today, it is increasingly viewed as a promising candidate for hydrogen energy storage and transport and, therefore, a promising clean fuel.

Traditionally, the production of ammonia has been linked to vast emissions of carbon dioxide (CO₂), which is a major contributor to climate change. These emissions largely stem from a reliance on fossil fuels, such as natural gas, to supply the core component of ammonia: hydrogen. Imagine having to burn vast amounts of fuel just to produce a vital compound – this is the environmental reality of conventional ammonia production.

However, a new hope lies in the green ammonia – a promising vision that seeks to transform ammonia production into a completely environmentally friendly process. The core idea is both simple and innovative: producing the hydrogen required for ammonia not from fossil fuels, but from water, using a process called electrolysis. For this process to be considered “green”, it must be powered by clean electricity sourced from renewables, such as solar or wind energy. In doing so, the entire ammonia production cycle can be achieved with the lowest possible carbon footprint.

Transitioning to green ammonia requires intensive research to enhance efficiency and reduce production costs. In this context, researcher Ashish Madhukar Gujrathi and his team from Sultan Qaboos University conducted an ambitious study aimed at optimising ammonia production – both green and conventional – on a small scale. The study’s focus was on multi-objective optimisation, seeking the best trade-offs between several, sometimes conflicting, goals.

The study focused on reducing carbon emissions, lowering energy consumption, increasing economic profit, and enhancing product purity. To this end, the team used ProMax 5.0 simulation software to construct a virtual ammonia plant, enabling the safe and cost-free testing of various operational scenarios, including changes in temperature and pressure. They then applied advanced algorithms, like I-MODE, to identify the most optimal operating strategy that meets both technical and environmental criteria. 

The results demonstrated that a smart integration of renewable energy sources with an optimised process design can make a real difference. This integration not only reduces environmental impact but also renders ammonia production economically viable and efficient. This study represents a significant step forward, contributing to a deeper understanding of green ammonia production efficiency and offering a roadmap for small-scale plants to adopt this sustainable technology. Despite challenges such as high initial costs and ensuring reliable access to renewable energy, ongoing research continues to steer efforts in the right direction.

Green ammonia is not just a technological innovation – it is a promising pathway towards balancing food security, industrial progress, and environmental preservation. Moreover, the study embodies Sultan Qaboos University’s commitment to advancing sustainable, impactful research and fostering scientific innovation in the service of society.