Nitrous oxide, or laughing gas as it is commonly called, consists of two nitrogen atoms bonded to an oxygen atom in a linear configuration. At room temperature it is a colorless, odorless gas that is a strong oxidizer. It is emitted into the atmosphere through industrial, power generating and agricultural processes. Common sources of N2O include nitric acid manufacturing, the combustion of fuels in stationary diesel engines and stationary gas engines, and the application of fertilizers.
Although nitrous oxide is considered non-toxic, it is a very powerful greenhouse gas (GHG) with a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 298 (100 years) compared to a GWP value of 1 for Carbon Dioxide [1]. Thus, in order to slow the effects of global warming, N2O emissions must be limited. Some regulations are already in place to accomplish this such as the EPA’s Regulations for Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Passenger Cars and Trucks [2]. More regulations that will affect both mobile and stationary sources of emissions are expected to follow in the coming years.
Although N2O can be created by emission control catalysts operating under specific conditions, Johnson Matthey has spent years developing advanced emission control catalyst formulations that minimize the amount of N2O produced. For example, our advanced Ammonia Slip Catalysts (ASC) operating over a wide temperature range exhibit very little N2O formation. The ASC technology has been incorporated in many of our advanced SCR system designs for applications such as Stationary Diesel Engines and Stationary Gas Engines.
[1] EPA Website - https://www.epa.gov/ghgemissions/overview-greenhouse-gases
[2] EPA Website - https://www.epa.gov/regulations-emissions-vehicles-and-engines/regulations-greenhouse-gas-emissions-passenger-cars-and