ISSN print edition: 0366-6352 ISSN electronic edition: 1336-9075 Registr. No.: MK SR 9/7 Published monthly

Electrochemical innovations and emerging trends in ammonia-based clean energy systems

D. Christopher Selvam, T. Raja, Ganesan Subbiah, Yuvarajan Devarajan, Sankar Narayan Das, Bhumika, T. Ramachandran, and Vijay J. Upadhye

Department of Mechanical Engineering, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Science, Saveetha University, Chennai, India

E-mail: dyuvarajan2@gmail.com

Abstract:

Ammonia is increasingly recognized as a carbon–neutral fuel and an efficient hydrogen carrier, owing to its high energy density in the liquid phase, established global logistics infrastructure, and versatility across various energy conversion technologies, including engines, turbines, and fuel cells. These characteristics render it a pivotal facilitator for the transition towards decarbonized maritime transportation, sustainable power generation, and prolonged energy storage, thereby aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 7 (Clean Energy) and Sustainable Development Goal 13 (Climate Action). Although the prevailing production method is still the Haber–Bosch (HB) process, integrating this process with green hydrogen derived from renewable energy sources has the potential to significantly diminish lifecycle emissions, which is pertinent to Sustainable Development Goal 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). Emerging methodologies, including electrochemical nitrogen reduction (ENRR) and plasma-assisted catalysis, have demonstrated advancements in Faradaic efficiency and partial current density; however, their widespread implementation remains obstructed by challenges related to selectivity, reaction kinetics, and energy consumption. In terms of application, ammonia encounters obstacles related to ignition stability, emissions of unburned fuel, compatibility with materials, and the elevated formation of NO_x, necessitating the development of optimized combustor designs and effective post-combustion control measures. This review synthesizes recent developments in both synthesis and utilization pathways, delineating research priorities concerning catalyst innovation, process integration, and emissions reduction to support Sustainable Development Goal 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and enhance ammonia’s role within prospective low-carbon energy frameworks.

Full paper is available at www.springerlink.com.

DOI: 10.1007/s11696-025-04552-0

Chemical Papers 80 (4) 3235–3255 (2026)