Recent Progress in Electrochemical Nitrogen Reduction on Transition Metal Nitrides. Issue 5 (26th January 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Yang, Xiaoju; Xu, Bingjun; Chen, Jingguang G.; Yang, Xuan
• Is Part Of: ChemSusChem. Volume 16:Issue 5(2023)
• Page Start: n/a
• Page End: n/a
• Publication Date: 2023-01-26
• Subjects: ammonia -- electrocatalysis -- nitrides -- nitrogen reduction -- operando spectroscopy; Green chemistry -- Periodicals; Sustainable engineering -- Periodicals; Chemistry -- Periodicals; Chemical engineering -- Periodicals; 660
• DOI: 10.1002/cssc.202201715
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1864-5631

Abstract

Abstract: Distributed electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction (ENRR) powered by renewable energy for the on‐site production of ammonia is an attractive alternative to the industrial Haber–Bosch process, which is responsible for roughly 2 % of global energy consumption. In this Review, we summarize recent progress in the ENRR catalyzed by transition metal nitrides (TMNs). The unique electronic structures of TMNs make them promising ENRR catalysts for active and selective ammonia production, which have been predicted theoretically and demonstrated experimentally. Reaction pathways and deactivation mechanisms of the ENRR on different TMNs are surveyed, and current understanding of structure‐activity relations is discussed. To develop highly active, selective, and stable TMN catalysts for industrial‐scale ENRR, membrane electrode assembly configuration is recommended in catalyst evaluation. Furthermore, we highlight the importance of developing mechanistic understanding on ENRR with different operando spectroscopic techniques. Abstract : N over N : This Review summarizes recent progress in the electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction (ENRR) on transition metal nitrides (TMNs). Reaction pathways and deactivation mechanisms are surveyed, and current understanding of structure–activity relations is discussed. Membrane electrode assembly configuration is recommended in catalyst evaluation. Developing mechanistic understanding on ENRR with different operando spectroscopic techniques is further highlighted.