Why in the news?

• Scientists have developed a method to make ammonia-powered SOFCs more reliable and efficient by integrating a plasma reactor with the fuel cell, addressing challenges in using ammonia directly as a fuel for clean energy.

Ammonia-Powered Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs)

• What are SOFCs?: They are electrochemical devices that convert chemical energy of fuel directly into electricity.
• Features:
  • Operate at high temperatures of the range 600–1000°C.
  • Use a solid ceramic electrolyte (usually yttria-stabilised zirconia).
  • Can run on hydrogen, natural gas, syngas, or ammonia.
• Plasma Assisted Conversion:
  • Plasma reactor breaks ammonia (NH₃) into hydrogen (H₂) and nitrogen (N₂) before reaching the fuel cell – Enhancing fuel quality and reducing poisoning effects on electrodes.
  • Achieved 60% increase in power output at 800°C.
  • The plasma process operates efficiently at room temperature and can use waste heat recycling.
• Ammonia as Fuel:
  • Hydrogen Carrier: Ammonia (NH₃) contains ~17.6% hydrogen by weight.
  • Carbon-Free: When decomposed, releases only nitrogen and hydrogen (no CO₂).
  • Storage Advantage: Easier and cheaper to liquefy and transport than pure hydrogen.
  • Global Supply Chains: Already mass-produced for fertilizers; existing infrastructure can be adapted.
• Significance:
  • Clean Energy Transition: Supports green hydrogen economy by using ammonia as a hydrogen carrier.
  • Climate Change Mitigation: Reduces reliance on fossil fuels, lowers carbon emissions.
  • Strategic Importance for India:
    • Aligns with the National Green Hydrogen Mission (2023).
    • Potential use in shipping, power generation, and heavy industries.
    • Can complement India’s energy security and decarbonisation goals.
• Challenges:
  • High Operating Temperature causing material degradation and cost issues.
  • NOx Emissions if not carefully controlled.
  • Need for Green Ammonia: Current ammonia production is fossil-fuel heavy (Haber-Bosch process).