Comment by chrisbrandow
2 days ago
Assuming the energy input is atmospheric warmth, then the real question is what volume of ammonia can you produce with this device per acre? Then how does that amount of captured energy compare with wind/solar in the same area?
Otherwise, you’re just better off, producing electricity from one of those sources, or producing ammonia, using electricity from one of those sources, after accounting for losses in the various processes of course.
Sibling commenters mention industrial uses, sustainability means far more than just cars or electricity, part of why the focus on electric/cars is so short-sighted (never mind the issues electricity distribution brings to the table)...
But for cars/electricity, this is potentially excellent news (assuming longevity and cost of the operating equipment). The distribution costs are much lower than Hydrogen, and it could be used easily to power existing Hydrogen fleets. I'd wager this even makes electricity distribution easier, as ammonia batteries could be relatively stable and easily distributed as well.
Ammonia is far to dangerous for cars. Household cleaning ammonia concentrate is 99% water. That is concentrate, you dilute it for use (generally 16:1), and it is still nasty stuff. No car with enough ammonia to use it for energy will be allowed in a tunnel. To work on a car that uses this for fuel will require extreme protective gear - a chemical breathing mask, and protective clothing covering the entire body. Working on machines in such gear is not easy.
True, although this is a Red Herring of an argument.
Ammonia batteries does not mean "Ammonia Cars", I never said it did nor meant it should.
They are, however, excellent in areas that likely already required a hazmat suit (generators, substations, hydrogen fuel pumps, fertilizer factories, etc.)
1/3 the energy density of diesel and way more dangerous to lives and property.
Some quick research suggest, though, that the production of biodiesel is far more intensive (algae/oil farms are needed, then a process of procurement, production), and not without its own environmental concerns.
Ammonia is very common in industrial applications.
True. Commonality of ammonia references ammonia demand whereas grandparent comment was referencing the supply capacity per acre.