Recent Advances in Electrochemical Nitrogen Reduction Reaction to Ammonia from the Catalyst to the System

Abstract

As energy-related issues increase significantly, interest in ammonia (NH3) and its potential as a new eco-friendly fuel is increasing substantially. Accordingly, many studies have been conducted on electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction (ENRR), which can produce ammonia in an environmentally friendly manner using nitrogen molecule (N2) and water (H2O) in mild conditions. However, research is still at a standstill, showing low performances in faradaic efficiency (FE) and NH3 production rate due to the competitive reaction and insufficient three-phase boundary (TPB) of N2(g)-catalyst(s)-H2O(l). Therefore, this review comprehensively describes the main challenges related to the ENRR and examines the strategies of catalyst design and TPB engineering that affect performances. Finally, a direction to further develop ENRR through perspective is provided.