Evolving electrocatalytic nitrate-to-ammonia conversion on Cu- and Co-based catalyst engineering with paired...

Area of Science:

• Electrochemistry
• Catalysis
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Electrocatalytic nitrate reduction to ammonia (NH3) is a sustainable alternative to Haber-Bosch for NH3 synthesis and wastewater remediation.
• Copper (Cu) and cobalt (Co) catalysts show promise due to electronic structure and cost but suffer from deactivation via intermediate adsorption (*NO).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in Cu- and Co-based catalyst design for electrocatalytic nitrate reduction.
• To address catalyst deactivation issues and enhance selectivity and stability.

Main Methods:

• Facet engineering
• Oxidation state modulation
• Single-atom dispersion
• Bimetallic catalyst construction
• Tandem catalysis and paired electrolysis configurations

Main Results:

• Strategies effectively regulate intermediate adsorption strength and enhance hydrogenation kinetics.
• Optimization of Cu and Co d-band centers improves catalytic performance.
• Tandem and paired electrolysis systems boost energy efficiency and economic viability.

Conclusions:

• Advanced catalyst design principles are crucial for developing next-generation Cu- and Co-based electrocatalysts.
• These catalysts are key for scalable, sustainable nitrogen management and efficient ammonia synthesis.