Abstract
The electrocatalytic reduction of nitrate (NO3−) to ammonia (NH3) holds substantial promise, as it transforms NO3− from polluted water into valuable NH3. However, the reaction is limited by sluggish kinetics and low NH3 selectivity. Cu-based catalysts with unique electronic structures demonstrate rapid NO3− to NO2− rate-determining step (RDS) and fast electrocatalytic nitrate reduction reaction (eNO3RR) kinetics among non-noble metal catalysts. Nonetheless, achieving high robustness and selectivity for NH3 with Cu-based catalysts remains a significant challenge. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the reaction mechanisms in eNO3RR, highlights how the structures of monometallic and bimetallic Cu-based catalyst affect catalytic properties, and discusses the current challenges as well as prospects in eNO3RR.
Original language | English |
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Journal | ChemSusChem |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Accepted/In press - 2025 |
Keywords
- Copper-based catalysts
- Electrocatalysis
- Energy conversion
- Nitrate reduction reaction