Liquid ammonia electrolysis by platinum electrodes

Liquid ammonia was electrolyzed based on a new concept by using metal amide as the supporting electrolyte for generation of hydrogen. Different metal amides including LiNH2, NaNH2 and KNH2 were tested, and the influences of the solubility and the concentration of different electrolytes upon the electrolysis current were investigated. Electrolysis efficiency was evaluated on the basis of chronopotentiometry tests at different current densities. Platinized platinum electrodes with fine structure were introduced in order to improve the electrolysis current and reduce the electrolysis potential.

Research highlights▶ The electrolysis of liquid ammonia was realized, generating hydrogen and nitrogen. ▶ The electrolysis current was examined by using different metal amides as supporting electrolytes. ▶ Electrolysis efficiency was evaluated at different current densities. ▶ Platinized platinum electrodes with fine structure enables improving the electrolysis current.