STTR Phase I: Plasma Electrochemical System for Cost Competitive Air to Ammonia Production

NSF Award Search · 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT · $305,000 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

The broader/commercial impact of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I project is the development of an on-site ammonia synthesis reactor that can be deployed anywhere with grid connectivity, expanding ammonia access for the agricultural sector. Ammonia is one of the most widely produced chemical compounds worldwide, with the incumbent Haber-Bosch process accounting for over 96% of global production. However, this process is highly energy intensive, requiring fossil fuel-derived hydrogen and centralized production to accommodate the extreme temperatures and pressures needed for production. This results in energy intensive processes, high emissions, and complex and unreliable supply chains. In contrast, decentralized, on-site ammonia generation promotes local agriculture by providing communities with a reliable, on-site source of fertilizers with reduced transportation and storage costs. Integration of this technology, which uses water and air as free and reliably available raw materials, reduces reliance on international natural gas prices and helps mitigate cost volatility and supply chain disruptions. By enabling direct air-to-NH3 conversion at room temperature, this technology is expected to enhance supply-chain stability, lower costs, and reduce energy reliance for fertilizer production. The technical innovation of this Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) project lies in the ability to independently control the nitrogen activation chemistry in

Key facts

NSF award ID
2527792
Awardee
PLASMACHEM SOLUTIONS, INC. (NY)
SAM.gov UEI
T91UWSSCBYC6
PI
Pratahdeep Gogoi
Primary program
01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
All programs
ENVIRON BENIGN CHEMICAL SYNTH & PROCESS
Estimated total
$305,000
Funds obligated
$305,000
Transaction type
Standard Grant
Period
10/01/2025 → 09/30/2026