DIY Birkeland-Eyde Reactor: An Arduino-Powered Experiment
2025-04-09
Citizen scientist Marb built a DIY experimental reactor to demonstrate the Birkeland-Eyde process, a historically significant but inefficient method of producing nitric acid from atmospheric nitrogen using electric arcs. While energy-intensive and largely obsolete for industrial use, Marb's focus is on the scientific experiment. He cleverly uses an Arduino UNO to control the electric arc, incorporating a desiccant dryer for optimal air conditions and a temperature sensor for feedback. Though the current yield is low, Marb plans a follow-up video with more details if there's sufficient interest.