Abstract: A process for producing ammonia comprising selecting a catalyst precursor characterized by the formula:A.sub.y M.sub.a [M'(CN).sub.c ].sub.b .multidot.n H.sub.2 OwhereinA is an alkali or alkaline earth metal or mixture thereof;M is La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Pm, Sm, Eu, Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, Yb, Sc, Lu and Y or mixtures;M' is a group VIII metal, preferably Fe, Co, Ni or Ru or mixtures;a=0.1 to 4;b=0.1 to 4;c=4 to 6; andprovided that the catalyst is free or substantially free of Al or the combination of Al and U, activating the precursor by heating in a non-oxidizing atmosphere and pass N.sub.2 and H.sub.2 over the activated catalyst to produce ammonia.

Abstract: A carbonaceous deposit is retorted in an array of in-situ retorts comprising rectangular retorts arranged in rows. Adjacent rows of retorts are separated by an unbroken pillar extending the length of the rows. The bottoms of the in-situ retorts slope downwardly from a first side to the opposite side. An exhaust tunnel for the deliver of products from the retort located below the bottom of the retort extends longitudinally of the row with its outer wall approximately in alignment with, but not extending laterally beyond, the pillar to maintain the integrity of the pillar. The system is especially advantageous in the retorting of oil shale and is described in detail for that application.