Cu-modified InVO4 photocatalysts for enhanced N2 fixation using chemical reagents and electroplating sludge as the Cu source

Abstract

Inspired by simulation analysis, we found that Cu decoration could enhance the NH₃ production rate of InVO₄ through promoting N₂ adsorption and reducing the activation energy of the key hydrogenation step. 5% Cu/InVO₄ exhibited an optimal NH₃ yield of 195.11 μmol g_cat⁻¹ h⁻¹, approximately six times higher than that of InVO₄. Cu/InVO₄ was also fabricated by upcycling Cu from electroplating sludge, achieving a gratifying nitrogen fixation performance of 154.13 μmol g_cat⁻¹ h⁻¹.