Recent Advances in Electrocatalytic C-N Coupling for Urea Synthesis
Qiuyue Li1, Jingjing Liu1, Ze Wu1
1College of Materials Science and Engineering, Changsha University of Science &Technology, Changsha, Hunan, 410114, P. R. China.
Abstract:
Urea, one of the most widely used nitrogen-containing fertilizers globally, is essential for sustainable agriculture. Improving its production is crucial for meeting the increasing demand for fertilizers. Electrocatalytic co-reduction of CO₂ and nitrogenous compounds (NO₂-/NO₃-) has emerged as a promising strategy for green and energy-efficient urea synthesis. However, challenges such as slow reaction kinetics and complex multi-step electron transfers have hindered the development of efficient urea synthesis methods. This review explores recent advances in the electrocatalytic C-N coupling process, focusing on bimetallic catalysts, metal oxide/hydroxide catalysts, and carbon-based catalysts. The review also discusses the future prospects of designing effective catalysts for electrocatalytic C-N coupling to improve urea synthesis.
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