Structural design and control of photocatalytic nitrogen-fixing catalysts

Abstract

The process of traditional synthetic nitrogen-fixing ammonia involves high energy consumption and is not environmentally friendly due to severe reaction conditions. Thus, it is very important to explore new approaches to synthesize ammonia under mild conditions. Photocatalytic nitrogen fixation is an innovative way to use solar energy as an energy source and complete the conversion of nitrogen to ammonia through photocatalysis at normal temperatures. In recent years, the development of highly efficient photocatalysts has become a hot topic. In this study, we mainly discuss the structure and design of photocatalytic nitrogen-fixing materials, such as introducing various vacancies on the catalyst surface, conducting element doping and constructing heterojunctions. This review will also briefly introduce the oxidation process of N₂ to nitrogen compounds to bring some inspiration for the research and development of nitrogen-fixing photocatalysts.