Ambient, Catalyst-Free Synthesis of Ammonia, Amino Acids, and Urea via Bubble-Induced Microenvironments

Abstract

A method and system are provided for synthesizing nitrogen-containing compounds, including ammonia, urea, amino acids, and ammonium salts, under ambient temperature and pressure conditions without the use of external catalysts or high-energy input. A nitrogen-containing gas and water are introduced into an aqueous solution through a submerged bubble-diffusing component, generating microbubbles that collapse and rupture to form high-energy microenvironments. These environments facilitate in situ molecular dissociation and the formation of reactive nitrogen species, including ammonia as an intermediate. The method supports reaction with co-solutes such as carbon dioxide, organic acids, or inorganic anions to yield target compounds. Optional low-energy augmentations—such as ultraviolet irradiation, ultrasonic agitation, or shear mixing—may enhance yield and selectivity. The system is compatible with isotopic gas variants and can be configured for batch or continuous-flow operation. Applications include decentralized production of fertilizers and biochemical precursors in agricultural, hydroponic, or laboratory settings.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.