Efficient ammonia capture reduces emissions and costs
Ammonia production is associated with high levels of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions as well as loss of valuable ammonia in off-gas (gas by-products) and ammonia salts. Enhancing the efficiency of ammonia capture from off-gas while reducing emissions and costs were the guiding themes for the ‘Amonia gas absorption technology’ (AGATE) project. Scientists sought to convert the ammonia into a chemical product capable of immediate reuse in production processes or of being sold as a chemical of high quality while producing a zero gas emission profile. In order to meet project objectives, researchers developed compact ammonia membrane gas absorption (MGA) technology for highly efficient ammonia capture at various gas flow rates. Scientists designed the membrane absorber for specific off-gas properties and developed a procedure for reuse of ammonia salts generated by the MGA procedure. Resulting membranes were highly efficient at ammonia removal with cost far below conventional absorbers. In addition, investigators identified the potential for a total operating cost reduction of 60 % in the very near future. Advanced compact gas absorption technologies developed by the AGATE team resulted in higher efficiency of ammonia capture with lower operating costs and no sacrifice in terms of safety and reliability. Commercialisation of the MGA technology could benefit a variety of industries while protecting the planet from harmful emissions.
