Nitrogen Fixation by Simple Gling Arc Plasma Reactor at Elevated Pressure for Synthesis of Aqueous Nitrogen Fertilizer

Abstract

Plasma technology for nitrogen fixation offers a sustainable alternative to traditional fossil fuel‐based methods for fertilizer production. A novel gliding arc plasma reactor is studied for its potential in nitrate fertilizer production, examining its performance across varying gas flow rates, compositions, and pressures (0–2 bar). Results show increased nitric acid (HNO3) production with higher pressure. The reactor achieves a NOx production rate of 10.2 g/h and an HNO3 production rate of 8.83 g/h, with an energy cost of 2.9 MJ/mol of nitrogen. A selectivity of 84% toward NO2 at 2 bar pressure highlights the reactor's efficiency in nitrogen utilization, enhancing its potential for practical applications.