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Nonaqueous Li-Mediated Nitrogen Reduction: Taking Control of Potentials
Romain Tort1,2, Olivia Westhead2, Matthew Spry2
1Department of Chemical Engineering, Imperial College London, SW7 2AZLondon, U.K.
ACS Energy Letters
|February 23, 2023
Summary
Researchers developed a nonaqueous LiFePO4 reference electrode for ammonia synthesis. This tool helps understand energy efficiency and reaction mechanisms in Li-mediated processes.
Area of Science:
- Electrochemistry
- Catalysis
- Materials Science
Background:
- Lithium-mediated ammonia synthesis shows promise but lacks fundamental understanding due to uncontrolled variables.
- A stable reference electrode is crucial for accurate electrochemical measurements in nonaqueous electrolytes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a nonaqueous LiFePO4 reference electrode for Li-mediated ammonia synthesis.
- To provide a redox anchor for potential measurements and assess energy efficiency losses.
- To elucidate the electrochemical steps and Li-ion activity during the reaction.
Main Methods:
- Development of a true nonaqueous LiFePO4 reference electrode.
- Electrochemical potential measurements in N2- and H2-saturated electrolytes.
- In situ probing of Li-ion activity using the LiFePO4/Li+ equilibrium.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated stable electrochemical potential of the LiFePO4 reference electrode.
- Uncovered the relationship between partial current density and potentials.
- Identified lithium plating as the primary electrochemical step on the working electrode.
- Observed changes in Li-ion activity during the ammonia synthesis process.
Conclusions:
- The developed LiFePO4 reference electrode facilitates a more defined system for studying Li-mediated ammonia synthesis.
- Accurate potential measurements reveal lithium plating as the key electrochemical step.
- In situ monitoring of Li-ion activity aids in understanding energy efficiency losses.
- Further research in defined systems is needed for a holistic understanding of the reaction mechanism.
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