Is Nitrous Oxide (that's N2O, not Nitrogen Dioxide, NO2) made using the by-products of other processes, by-products that would otherwise be vented into the atmosphere? Or are the feedstocks specifically created for N2O production?
I've just re-written your last post in my own words, so that we are certain I know exactly what you're looking for. So is the above question correct?
I've posted this question on a couple of forums that I frequent. If anyone comes up with anything I will let you know.
Edit:
Some bits and pieces...
N2O production appears to be something that occurs naturally in the soil.
N2O is itself a by-product of nitric acid production, and something that HNO3 producers have to spend a lot of time and effort in curtailing.
http://www.climatetechnology.gov/library/2005/tech-options/tor2005-441-442.pdf
Presumably some of that waste N2O is not catalysed into other things, but captured.
Still looking...
This is (among other methods) used in industrially producing nitric acid, and in that process N2O is a by-product. I think it is not collected, as purifying it would not maybe be that profitable.
I still think Airgas is producing N20, in facilities specially designed for nitrous oxide production, so not as by-product.