Materials for electrochemical ammonia synthesis

Abstract

Direct electrochemical synthesis of ammonia is proposed as a means of reducing the carbon footprint of the fertiliser industry, as well as providing new opportunities for carbon-free liquid energy storage. We review the current status of research into materials for electrochemical ammonia synthesis and evaluate the reported rates and efficiencies in terms of recent US Department of Energy targets. Surprisingly, development of electrocatalysts has only recently received much attention, and despite a number of promising rates, the target values remain distant. A number of theoretical studies suggest a range of candidate materials yet to be explored.