Accelerating electrosynthesis of ammonia from nitrates using coupled NiO/Cu nanocomposites

Abstract

The synergy between Ni and Cu centers helps to avoid the accumulation of nitrite intermediates, thus boosting the electroreduction of nitrate to ammonia.

Dynamically Restructuring Nanoporous Cu–Co Electrocatalyst for Efficient Nitrate Electroreduction to Ammonia

“…Up to now, numerous nanostructured materials have been proposed as electrocatalysts for NITRR. In particular, three-dimensional nanoporous catalysts prepared by dealloying methods are characterized by their simplicity, large specific surface area, and high electrical conductivity. − Among those, cost-effective and abundant transition metals have attracted intensive attention. − The highly occupied d-orbitals in Cu have a similar energy level to the lowest unoccupied molecular π* orbital of NO 3 – , making Cu with excellent kinetics for the initial NO 3 – reduction toward nitrite (NO 2 – ) . However, the main problem is the accumulation of NO 2 – during NITRR, requiring prolonged electrolysis and high overpotential to further reduce NO 2 – to NH 3 .…”

Understanding the cascade heterojunction of CuPc/Bi-MOF for photoelectrochemical nitrate reduction

“…1 Despite the Haber–Bosch process meeting the demand for NH 3 production on a large scale, its high energy consumption and significant pollution highlight the urgent need for more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternatives. 2 A photoelectrochemical (PEC) approach using renewable energy paved a new avenue for converting nitrogen to NH 3 . N 2 reduction is severely restricted by the stability of NN and its low solubility, as well as the competitive reaction of the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER).…”