Photocatalytic ammonia decomposition for hydrogen generation: insights from gas-phase and liquid-phase pathways

Abstract

Ammonia as a carbon-free nitrogenous compound has emerged as a promising hydrogen carrier for next-generation sustainable energy systems due to its high hydrogen density, low production cost, and ease of storage and transport. Nevertheless, current industrial activities have led to excessive ammonia emissions, including both gaseous and aqueous states, which results in serious environmental damage. Ammonia degradation for hydrogen generation can not only address the environmental issues, but also offer a solution to the energy crisis. In recent years, photocatalytic conversion of ammonia into hydrogen has emerged as a promising strategy due to its significant potential in sustainability and economic practicality. This review presents a comprehensive overview of recent progress in the development of advanced photocatalysts for ammonia splitting in gaseous and aqueous phases to produce hydrogen. Finally, key challenges and perspectives in future research based on photocatalytic NH3 conversion are discussed. This review provides guidance for the rational design of next-generation photocatalytic systems.

Graphical abstract: Photocatalytic ammonia decomposition for hydrogen generation: insights from gas-phase and liquid-phase pathways

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Article information

Article type
Review Article
Submitted
30 Apr 2025
Accepted
02 Aug 2025
First published
04 Aug 2025
This article is Open Access
Creative Commons BY-NC license

EES Sol., 2025, Advance Article

Photocatalytic ammonia decomposition for hydrogen generation: insights from gas-phase and liquid-phase pathways

Q. Lei, H. Feng, Y. Li and J. K. Kim, EES Sol., 2025, Advance Article , DOI: 10.1039/D5EL00067J

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