Researchers in China have developed a dual-atom catalyst that transforms nitrate pollution from industrial and agricultural runoff into ammonia. Using deep learning to optimize the material, the team achieved ammonia production rates nearly three times higher than conventional catalysts. This process offers a low-energy alternative to traditional ammonia production, which typically relies on carbon-intensive natural gas or coal. By treating wastewater at room temperature, the technology could reduce water contamination and stabilize chemical supply chains for urea fertilizer.
