Enhancing electrocatalytic nitrogen reduction on Ce-WO3 catalysts through the atomically local electric field effect: accelerated electron transfer and enhanced nitrogen activation

Abstract

The electrocatalytic nitrogen reduction reaction (ENRR) has been proposed as a sustainable and environmental alternative to the Haber–Bosch process. However, its practical implementation is hindered by poor N₂ adsorption capacity and the competitive hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). To overcome these challenges, Ce atoms (2.96 wt%) were incorporated into the WO₃ catalyst, inducing an atomically local electric field and achieving a FE of 25.49 ± 1.35% at −0.4 V vs. RHE and an NH₃ yield of 47.11 ± 2.05 µg h⁻¹ mg_cat⁻¹ at −0.5 V vs. RHE. The atomically local electric field can not only facilitate electron transfer through the Ce–O–W pathway, but also alter the local charge distribution of W. Consequently, it enhances the adsorption and polarization of N₂ on the catalyst surface. This work provides new insights into a viable approach for the development of advanced ENRR electrocatalysts.