Recent Advances in Electrochemical Synthesis of Ammonia through Nitrogen Reduction under Ambient Conditions. Issue 5 (14th February 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wang, Jia; Chen, Silong; Li, Zijian; Li, Guangkai; Liu, Xien
• Is Part Of: ChemElectroChem. Volume 7:Issue 5(2020)
• Page Start: 1067
• Page End: 1079
• Publication Date: 2020-02-14
• Subjects: nitrogen reduction -- NH3 synthesis -- electrocatalysts -- faradaic efficiency -- ambient conditions; Electrochemistry -- Periodicals; 541.37
• DOI: 10.1002/celc.201901967
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2196-0216

Abstract

Abstract: Ammonia is an important chemical raw material, widely used in industry and agriculture, as well as an important energy storage intermediate and carbon‐free energy carrier. But, its production is limited to the traditional Haber‐Bosch process. Recently, electrochemical reduction of N2 has been attracting more and more attention, owing to the lower energy consumption and because it is environmentally friendly. However, there are a lot of problems that remain to be solved, and the main challenges are the low selectivity and catalytic activity when using this process. In this Review, we first summarize the recent development of electrocatalysts for electrochemical N2 reduction and elaborate on the reaction mechanisms of the nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR). In addition, the effects of different types of electrolyte on the NRR activity and electrolyte choice are discussed. Finally, the perspectives of electrochemical nitrogen reduction for conversion to ammonia are discussed. Abstract : Alternate route : Recent progress of the electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) is discussed. First, the mechanism and the various catalysts of the NRR are introduced. Second, recent strategies for improving the NRR catalytic activity and faradaic efficiency are summarized. Finally, the electrochemical tests are standardized and challenges and opportunities in the field are identified.