Theoretical exploration of the nitrogen fixation mechanism of two-dimensional dual-metal FeTM@GY (TM = Fe, Mo, Co, and V) electrocatalysts

Abstract

In contrast to the energy-consuming Haber–Bosch process, ammonia synthesis by electrocatalysis under ambient conditions is an efficient and environmentally friendly method. In this work, through first principles calculations, the potential of four dual-atom FeTM (TM = Fe, Mo, Co, and V) anchored graphyne (FeTM@GY) as efficient nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) catalysts is systematically investigated. Among them, FeMo@GY is the most promising, with excellent NRR catalytic activity, high ability to suppress the competing hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), and good stability. Moreover, NRR prefers the maximum pathway with the calculated onset potentials of −0.27 V for FeMo@GY. This work not only suggests that FeMo@GY holds great promise as an efficient, low-cost, and stable dual-atom catalyst for NRR but also further provides a guiding idea for the design of efficient NRR catalysts.