SEOUL – Scientists at the Korea Institute of Energy Technology (KENTECH), led by Dr. Jinuk Choi, have made a significant stride in sustainable chemical production by demonstrating the exceptional performance of dichalcogenides as electrocatalysts for ammonia synthesis. This development, detailed in a forthcoming publication in Advanced Materials, offers a compelling alternative to the energy-intensive Haber-Bosch process, which currently accounts for approximately 1-2% of global energy consumption and significant carbon dioxide emissions. The discovery holds profound market significance for the fertilizer industry, aiming to decarbonize a critical agricultural input and enable more distributed, environmentally friendly production methods.The conventional Haber-Bosch process operates at extreme temperatures (400-500°C) and pressures (150-250 bar), relying heavily on fossil fuels for hydrogen production and process heat. In contrast, the KENTECH team's electrocatalytic method facilitates ammonia (NH3) synthesis from nitrogen (N2) and water (H2O) under ambient conditions, utilizing renewable electricity. Dr. Choi emphasized the unique electronic structure of dichalcogenides, such as molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) and tungsten disulfide (WS2), which provides optimal active sites for nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR). 'Our preliminary results show a faradaic efficiency exceeding 70% and an ammonia yield rate of 150 µmol h-1 cm-2 at room temperature and atmospheric pressure, which are among the highest reported for non-noble metal catalysts,' stated Dr. Choi in a recent interview. He added, 'This efficiency, coupled with the earth-abundance of these materials, positions dichalcogenides as highly attractive candidates for industrial scale-up.'The global ammonia market, valued at over $70 billion annually, is under increasing pressure to reduce its carbon footprint. Current ammonia production contributes roughly 450 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent emissions per year. The shift towards electrochemical synthesis powered by renewable energy sources like solar or wind could drastically cut these emissions, aligning with global decarbonization targets. Industry analysts project that green ammonia, produced via such methods, could capture a substantial share of the market within the next decade, particularly for use in sustainable agriculture, as a hydrogen carrier, and as a marine fuel.While the electrochemical synthesis of ammonia is still in its nascent stages compared to the mature Haber-Bosch process, advancements in catalyst design and reactor engineering are accelerating its commercial viability. Companies like Yara International and CF Industries are actively exploring green ammonia pathways, recognizing the long-term economic and environmental benefits. The KENTECH research provides a crucial piece of the puzzle, identifying a cost-effective and high-performing catalyst material. Future work will focus on improving catalyst stability, optimizing reactor designs for continuous flow, and demonstrating scalability to pilot plant levels. The potential for decentralized ammonia production, reducing transportation costs and supply chain vulnerabilities, also represents a significant market opportunity, particularly for regions with abundant renewable energy resources.