Ambient dinitrogen electrocatalytic reduction for ammonia synthesis

Abstract

Ammonia holds considerable significance for modern human community and the natural world. Ambient electrochemical NH₃ synthesis powered by renewable energy rather than the energy-intensive Haber–Bosch process is promising for the future development of a sustainable society. Developing highly efficient electrocatalysts with low overpotential, considerable selectivity, and faradaic efficiency is, therefore, necessary, yet formidably challenging. In this review, various advanced technologies and available electrocatalytic materials for ammonia synthesis under mild conditions are briefly reviewed based on both experimental and theoretical studies. Three categories, namely, noble-metal-, nonnoble-metal-, and carbon-based materials, have been mainly reviewed, and certain inspiring strategies in improving the efficiency have been proposed to promote the future development of electrochemical ammonia synthesis. Finally, conclusions and perspectives are provided for the continuous innovation of highly effective electrocatalysis in ambient N₂ reduction and NH₃ synthesis for a sustainable society.