TECHNOLOGY/BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY Direct Conversion of Air to Ammonia and Nitric Acid using Advanced Manufactured Electrochemical Reactors
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Department of Energy (DOE), through Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), has issued a Special Notice for a Technology/Business Opportunity to develop and commercialize its Direct Conversion of Air to Ammonia and Nitric Acid using Advanced Manufactured Electrochemical Reactors. This is NOT A PROCUREMENT. LLNL is seeking industry partners with demonstrated capabilities to bring this invention to market. Statements of interest are due by May 27, 2026.
Technology Overview
LLNL has developed an innovative method for producing ammonia and nitric acid that bypasses the energy-intensive and environmentally impactful Haber-Bosch process. This new approach utilizes advanced manufactured electrochemical reactors, focusing on the oxidation of nitrogen into nitrate using an additively manufactured optimized anode design.
Advantages & Applications
- Advantages: Avoids costly separation processes, eliminates the need for high temperatures and pressures, uses DIW 3D printing for optimized anode design, and converts directly from air without hydrogen evolution, toxic materials, or unwanted byproducts.
- Potential Applications: Primarily in agriculture for synthetic fertilizer ingredients, and in refrigeration and other industrial needs.
Development Status & Intellectual Property
The technology is currently at TRL 3-5. LLNL has filed for patent protection, with U.S. Patent Application No. 2024/0301569 published on September 12, 2024.
Collaboration Details
LLNL is seeking industry partners to commercialize this technology. All licensing activities are conducted under strict nondisclosure policies. More information on working with LLNL and the technology transfer process is available on the IPO website.
Response Requirements
Interested companies should provide an electronic or written statement of interest including:
- Company Name and address.
- Name, address, and telephone number of a point of contact.
- A description of corporate expertise and/or facilities relevant to commercializing this technology.
Submission & Contacts
Email responses should include the Notice ID or title in the subject line. Written responses can be mailed to the provided address.
- Response Due: May 27, 2026
- Published: April 27, 2026
- Primary Contact: Jared Lynch (lynch36@llnl.gov, 925-422-6667)
- Secondary Contact: Charlotte Eng (eng23@llnl.gov, 925-422-1905)