"Real-time Observation of Catalytic Chemistry in Ammonia Production"

Researchers used operando X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy to study the surface chemistry during the Haber-Bosch process, revealing insights into the reaction mechanisms and rate-limiting steps on Fe and Ru single-crystal surfaces. The study showed that nitride formation is slower than nitride reduction, and the surfaces are predominantly metallic with low coverages of atomic nitrogen. The findings provide valuable information for understanding and optimizing the catalytic process of ammonia synthesis.