Oxidation of ammonia and synthesis of nitrogen compounds under the action of laser radiation

An experimental investigation was made of a homogeneous reaction of oxidation of ammonia stimulated by radiation from a cw CO₂ laser. The laser beam exhibited spontaneous oscillations of the power after transmission by a cell containing a reaction mixture. Intermediate reaction products, including NO₂, HNO₂, and HNO₃ were investigated. It was demonstrated experimentally that synthesis of NH₃ and other compounds was possible from air and water vapor.