Emerging two-dimensional materials for the electrocatalytic nitrogen reduction reaction to yield ammonia

Abstract

In this review, we summarize the important progress in the electroreduction of N₂ to NH₃ using state-of-the-art two-dimensional (2D) electrocatalysts. We expound on several reaction mechanisms of the nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) and report recent experimental progress regarding these unique 2D NRR electrocatalysts. In addition, some concepts recently proposed from high-throughput computations and machine learning are described. By building on a detailed understanding of the process of N₂ conversion to NH₃ on 2D electrocatalysts, novel 2D materials that could potentially serve as viable NRR electrocatalysts are presented. Future perspectives and challenges of N₂ electrolysis using 2D materials are also discussed.