Climate Super Pollutant Destruction

Project Type: N2O Abatement Project

Project Details: 

N2O emissions are a byproduct of making adipic acid, which is commonly used to make nylon products. For every molecule of adipic acid produced, a molecule of N2O is produced as a byproduct. The project activity consists of capturing excess N2O emissions through a new absorption column at the Ascend Performance Materials’ adipic acid plant in Cantonment, FL. The emissions are then destroyed.

The column converts N2O to nitric acid via a high-pressure water absorption process. This absorption column allows the plant’s Thermal Reduction Unit to accept a higher percentage of the off-gas flow from the adipic acid plant rather than directing it to the non-N2O emissions control unit (the N2O-specific selective catalytic reduction unit or SCR), resulting in more N2O destroyed.

Nitrous oxide (N₂O) abatement is essential for safeguarding our planet’s future. Known as a “silent” greenhouse gas, N₂O has a global warming potential roughly 300 times that of carbon dioxide, making its impact on climate change profound. Additionally, N₂O contributes to the depletion of the ozone layer, creating dangerous ozone holes that increase our exposure to harmful ultraviolet radiation. By reducing N₂O emissions, primarily from agriculture and industrial activities, we can significantly mitigate climate change, protect the ozone layer, and ensure a healthier, more sustainable environment for generations to come. Taking action on N₂O abatement is a critical step in our fight for a safer, greener world.

Certification for this project is pending core Carbon Principle Methodology approval.