Recent advances in 2D structured materials with defect-exploiting design strategies for electrocatalysis of nitrate to ammonia
Jinuk Choi, Sejin Im, Jihyun Choi, Subramani Surendran, Dae Jun Moon, Joon Young Kim, Jung Kyu Kim, Uk Sim
Abstract
Ammonia has been used in a wide variety of applications, and with the recent interest in hydrogen energy as a green energy source, it is emerging as a cost-effective, high-density hydrogen carrier due to its three hydrogen atoms. Currently, ammonia is produced by the Haber-Bosch method at high temperatures and pressure, which is energy-intensive and emits large amounts of carbon dioxide. As a viable alternative, the electrochemical conversion of nitrate to ammonia has emerged as an efficient and eco-friendly synthesis method. To encourage further exploration in this field, this review offers insights into utilizing two-dimensional materials as electrochemical catalysts, focusing on designs that exploit defects for nitrate reduction to ammonia.