Nanotechnology · 2020 · 25 citations · 31 references
Natural SciencesChemical EngineeringChemistryCatalysisElectrochemistryNanomaterialsElectrochemical CellsElectrochemical Energy ConversionElectrochemical SynthesisNanocatalysisRedox CatalysisRedox-active MaterialsAmmonia ProductionAmmonia SynthesisCatalytic NanoparticlesElectrocatalystsElectrocatalytic NanomaterialsFaradaic EfficiencyNanoparticlesNitrogen Reduction Reaction
Abstract Ammonia synthesis, one of the most challenging chemical synthesis processes, plays a vital role in the development of human industry and agriculture. Compared with the industrial Harber–Bosch ammonia process with huge energy input and high CO 2 emissions, the search for a resource-saving, environmentally-friendly ammonia synthesis alternative is extremely urgent. Electrocatalytic nitrogen reduction appears to be a good candidate. In this communication, we report the development of ruthenium nanoparticles as a highly efficient and durable nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) electrocatalyst in acidic electrolyte under ambient conditions. Such electrochemical NRR catalyst exhibits a large NH 3 formation rate (24.88 μ g h –1 mg –1 cat. ) with Faradaic efficiency (0.35%) at −0.15 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode, outperforming many reported NRR electrocatalysts. Note that it exhibits high durability and stability during the entire electrochemical NRR process.
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