Atmonia - Patented catalysts from ammonia production

The Icelandic innovation company Atmonia is developing a patented electrolysis technology to produce ammonia, a key compound used for the production of fertilizers and as e-fuel. Current production methods have changed little in decades, are energy-intensive, and release significant greenhouse gases.

Atmonia’s electrolysis technology uses innovative catalysts to split water and nitrogen from the atmosphere using electricity, producing ammonia. The technique offers several advantages over the traditional Haber-Bosch process:

• Lower energy consumption and integration of renewable energy
• No greenhouse gas emissions
• Long-term efficiency with reduced energy usage and a simpler process.

Egill Skúlason, a professor of chemical engineering at the University of Iceland and co-founder and director of research and development at Atmonia, emphasizes the importance of securing patents for companies like Atmonia that rely on innovation and technological development. Patents protect their inventions, methods, and technology from unauthorized use.

"It is crucial for the company to have patents on the chemical catalysts we've developed, as they enable us to continue advancing the process, attracting investment, and securing financial backing," Egill explains. "It’s been ten years since we applied for our first patent here in Iceland, which was later transferred to an international application. And then last year, we applied for three new patents."

Egill also encourages inventors to schedule consultations with the Intellectual Property Office before deciding whether to apply for a patent or not. "In such consultations, you review all published patents to see if similar inventions are already patented. It’s essential to have this knowledge before beginning the patent application process," he concludes.