Ammonia synthesis catalysts have been based on iron since the first commercial production in 1913. Conventional ammonia synthesis catalysts are made of magnetite (Fe3O4) with structural and electronic promoters. However, Süd-Chemie now is manufacturing an ammonia synthesis catalyst based on non-stoichiometric iron oxide, wustite (Fe1-xO) with a cubic crystal structure. This catalyst is more active at lower temperature and lower pressure and hence, allows a more efficient ammonia production.
