Brian Choi

kchoi305 at gatech dot edu
B.S., Chemical Engineering: University of Wisconsin-Madison (2025)

Project: Role of electric fields in low-temperature ammonia synthesis on promoted metal nitride catalysts

Project Description: Ammonia is an essential chemical commodity for fertilizers and industrial processes, yet its conventional synthesis via the Haber–Bosch process requires high temperatures and pressures, contributing to large energy demands and capital costs. Metal nitride catalysts have recently emerged as promising alternatives that facilitate ammonia synthesis via lattice-nitrogen–based pathways (Mars-van Krevelen mechanism), allowing operation under milder conditions. This project aims to experimentally investigate how promoters and electric fields influence the kinetics and surface chemistry of ammonia synthesis on metal nitride catalysts. By integrating steady-state rate measurements with operando spectroscopy and open-circuit potential (OCP) analysis, we will directly probe surface intermediates, coverages, and potential-dependent energetics. These studies will provide molecular-level insight into rate-limiting steps and how electric fields can be leveraged to enhance catalyst performance for energy-efficient ammonia production.