Electrochemical Synthesis of Ammonia Based on a Perovskite LaCrO3 Catalyst

Abstract

Electrochemical synthesis of ammonia through the nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) has the possibility to revolutionize our production of ammonia and to save our planet from both emissions and large energy consumption. In this study, a perovskite structured lanthanum chromite catalyst (LaCrO3) is synthesized, characterized as well as electrochemically evaluated for NRR. The highest ammonia yield is obtained at −0.8 V vs. reversible hydrogen electrode with an ammonia formation rate of 24.8 μg h−1 mg−1cat, and a Faradaic efficiency of 15 %. Material calculation further confirms the possible mechanism of ammonia formation with the aid of LaCrO3 catalyst. The resulting conclusion offers a great alternative with the easily produced and low-cost perovskite structured electrocatalysts for ammonia production.