Green ammonia in the global research spotlight: Bibliometric insights and a review of renewable pathways and applications

Ammonia plays a pivotal role in global agriculture as a key precursor to nitrogen-based fertilizers and is increasingly recognized as a promising carbon-free energy carrier. However, the conventional Haber–Bosch synthesis process is energy-intensive, relying heavily on fossil fuels. To address this, the shift towards green ammonia production driven by renewable hydrogen and clean technologies is an increasingly important decarbonization strategy. This study offers a comprehensive bibliometric analysis using Scopus database on green ammonia spanning from 2006 to 2024, mapping the research trends, top-ranked countries, institutions, authors, and journals. In addition to the bibliometric analysis, the paper includes an integration of a technical overview of different renewable energy sources used for green ammonia, life cycle assessment (LCA), as well as emerging studies dealing with its applications in fertilizers, shipping fuels, and energy storage. The findings reveal accelerated growth in research output, dominated by collaborations in Europe, Asia, and North America, with a strong focus on electrolyzer development, ammonia cracking, and integration with solar and wind power. The combined bibliometric–technical approach highlights critical knowledge gaps, such as techno-economic feasibility, large-scale storage infrastructure, and safety protocols for ammonia transport. This dual analysis not only captures the advancement of scientific understanding but also provides practical guidance for policymakers, business leaders, and researchers. The results can inform technology roadmaps, foster international collaboration, and guide strategic investments in scaling up green ammonia as a cornerstone of the hydrogen economy and global net-zero transition. • A 19-year bibliometric analysis maps global research trends in green ammonia. • Renewable ammonia pathways (solar, wind, biomass, hydro) are reviewed. • Strategic roles of green ammonia in energy storage, shipping, and H 2 supply are assessed. • TEA/LCA insights reveal key barriers and opportunities for low-carbon ammonia systems. • A roadmap is proposed for future research, investment, and policy development.