Nylon Production: An Unknown Source of Atmospheric Nitrous Oxide

• DOI: 10.1126/science.251.4996.932
• Publication Date: 2006-10-05T22:10:16Z
• Authors: Mark H. Thiemens; William C. Trogler
• Keywords: Nitrous oxide; Adipic acid; Stoichiometry

Nitrous oxide in the earth's atmosphere contributes to catalytic stratospheric ozone destruction and is also a greenhouse gas component. A precise budgetary accounting of N(2)O sources has remained elusive, there an apparent lack source identification. One as by-product manufacture nylon, specifically preparation adipic acid. Characterization reaction stoichiometry its isotopic composition with simulated industrial acid synthesis indicates that because high rates global production, this may account for approximately 10 percent increase observed atmospheric N(2)O.