Journal article Electrocatalytic nitrogen reduction: mechanisms, system-level optimization, and future perspectives
Zichao Chen (author) (Search by this author)
;
Xueyao Meng (author) (Search by this author)
;
Guanze Su (author) (Search by this author)
;
Ning Wang (author) (Search by this author)
;
Li-Li Zhang (author) (Search by this author)
;
Hao Wan (author) (Search by this author)
;
Renzhi Ma (author) (Search by this author)
ORCID SAMURAI ;
Wei Ma (author) (Search by this author)
;
Zhen Zhou (author) (Search by this author)
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Citation
Zichao Chen, Xueyao Meng, Guanze Su, Ning Wang, Li-Li Zhang, Hao Wan, Renzhi Ma, Wei Ma, Zhen Zhou. Electrocatalytic nitrogen reduction: mechanisms, system-level optimization, and future perspectives. Nanoscale. 2025, 17 (27), 16100-16113. https://doi.org/10.1039/d5nr01582k

Description:

(abstract)

The electrocatalytic nitrogen reduction reaction (eNRR) stands out as a promising approach for ammonia (NH3) synthesis, boasting substantial environmental benefits over the traditional Haber–Bosch process. However, the eNRR still encounters fundamental constraints and persistent technical barriers that hinder its potential to supplant the Haber–Bosch process in industrial NH3 production. This technological gap necessitates holistic system optimization to bridge the performance disparities. This review systematically examines current advancements in the eNRR, beginning with an analysis of fundamental principles. We subsequently summarize the multi-faceted optimization strategies encompassing reactor configuration engineering, rational catalyst design through advanced material engineering strategies, implementation of standardized NH3 quantification protocols, and integration of advanced characterization methodologies. Such synergistic optimizations aim to simultaneously enhance catalytic efficiency, operational durability, and energy conversion efficiency in NH3 generation, ultimately facilitating the technological maturation of eNRR systems under realistic production conditions.

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Keyword: Electrocatalysts, Electrocatalytic nitrogen reduction

Date published: 2025-06-09

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Journal:

  • Nanoscale (ISSN: 20403364) vol. 17 issue. 27 p. 16100-16113

Funding:

  • National Natural Science Foundation of China U21A20281
  • Natural Science Foundation of Henan Province 242300421230
  • Zhengzhou University JC23257011
  • State Key Laboratory of Powder Metallurgy Sklpm-KF-021

Manuscript type: Author's version (Accepted manuscript)

MDR DOI: https://doi.org/10.48505/nims.5624

First published URL: https://doi.org/10.1039/d5nr01582k

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Updated at: 2026-06-09 10:30:18 +0900

Published on MDR: 2026-06-09 09:25:09 +0900

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