Bimetallic MnMoO₄ with dual-active-centers for highly efficient electrochemical N₂ fixation

Area of Science:

• Electrochemistry
• Materials Science
• Catalysis

Background:

• Electrochemical nitrogen fixation is crucial for sustainable ammonia production.
• Developing efficient electrocatalysts for the nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) is essential for improving NRR efficiency.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate bimetallic MnMoO4 as a high-performance NRR electrocatalyst.
• To evaluate the activity and durability of MnMoO4 nanorods-reduced graphene oxide for NRR.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of MnMoO4 nanorods supported on reduced graphene oxide.
• Electrochemical characterization of the catalyst for NRR.
• Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations to understand catalytic mechanisms.

Main Results:

• The MnMoO4 nanorods-reduced graphene oxide catalyst achieved a high ammonia yield of 60.3 μg h-1 mg-1.
• A Faradaic efficiency of 14.7% was obtained, outperforming most reported Mn and Mo-based NRR catalysts.
• Theoretical calculations indicated dual-active-centers on Mn and Mo atoms synergistically enhancing NRR.

Conclusions:

• Bimetallic MnMoO4 is a highly active and durable electrocatalyst for the nitrogen reduction reaction.
• The synergistic effect of dual-active-centers in MnMoO4 boosts NRR efficiency and suppresses hydrogen evolution.