Renewable energy research focuses on hydrogen and green ammonia synthesis

Researchers are exploring new methods for sustainable energy production through hydrogen and ammonia synthesis. In Santander, Colombia, a study simulated a hydrogen production plant using sugarcane bagasse as residual biomass. The process involves thermochemical conversion through drying, pyrolysis, and steam gasification, followed by water-gas shift reactions and pressure swing adsorption to ensure high purity. While the technical potential is evident, an economic evaluation indicated the project is currently not profitable, showing a negative net present value of 206 million USD.

In Chile, development is focused on electrochemical synthesis of green ammonia to address the energy density and transport challenges of hydrogen. Researchers are developing tubular BSCF electrodes for use in Protonic Ceramic Electrochemical Cells (PCECs). These cells utilize renewable electricity, green hydrogen, and nitrogen to synthesize ammonia at moderate temperatures and pressures, offering a more efficient and less polluting alternative to the traditional Haber-Bosch process.