Recent advances in electrocatalytic urea synthesis via N₂ and CO₂ coupling: mechanisms, catalyst design and reactor...

As a pivotal nitrogen fertilizer and versatile industrial feedstock, urea (CO(NH₂)₂) is predominantly synthesized via the Bosch-Meiser process, which is a high-temperature, high-pressure catalytic route, accompanied by substantial energy consumption and considerable CO₂ emissions. In light of global imperatives for carbon neutrality and sustainable development, electrocatalytic urea synthesis from N₂ and CO₂ under ambient conditions using renewable electricity has emerged as a promising green alternative. This review critically examines the fundamental scientific challenges and strategic significance of electrocatalytic N₂/CO₂ coupling for urea production. We systematically analyze the surface activation mechanisms of both N₂ and CO₂ on heterogeneous catalysts, elucidate the energetically demanding C-N bond-forming steps, and comprehensively survey recent advances in rational catalyst design and optimization strategies. Furthermore, we assess emerging innovations in electrochemical reactor configurations and process integration, identify persistent bottlenecks, and outline actionable pathways to mitigate them. By synthesizing current advances and projecting future research trajectories, this work aims to establish a coherent conceptual and methodological framework to accelerate the translational development of electrocatalytic urea synthesis toward practical implementation.