Large Volume Inorganic Chemicals - Ammonia ... - ammk-rks.net

Chapter 22.4.17 Low pressure catalyst for ammonia synthesisDescriptionA new ammonia synthesis catalyst containing ruthenium and an alkali promoter on a graphitesupport has a much higher activity per volume compared to the conventional iron-basedcatalyst. This allows energy savings to be made in the ammonia synthesis reactor, since loweroperation pressures can be used and a higher conversion rate per pass can be obtained. Thecatalyst volume can also be reduced.The activity of the traditional iron synthesis catalyst is increased considerably by promotionwith cobalt. A lower pressure in the ammonia synthesis reactor and/or a lower recycle rate canalso be achieved.Achieved environmental benefitsAn energy reduction of up to 1.2 GJ/tonne NH 3 can be achieved, but it might be offset by thenecessity to spend energy for ammonia refrigeration.Cross-media effectsNot believed likely.Operational dataNo information provided.ApplicabilityThis is an integrated technique applicable to new and existing steam reforming and partialoxidation plants.EconomicsNo information provided, but cost benefits can be assumed.Driving force for implementationCost benefits.References to literature and example plants[3, European Commission, 1997]Large Volume Inorganic Chemicals – Ammonia, Acids and Fertilisers 81