Enhanced plasma ammonia synthesis using a La2(Ti,W)2O7−x catalyst with Ti–W dual-metal sites

Abstract

The development of green and mild-distributed plasma ammonia synthesis methods is critical for addressing renewable energy challenges. However, catalyst development remains challenging due to complex plasma–catalyst interactions. Herein, a simple metal doping strategy was employed to design dual-metal active sites, aimed at utilizing the unique d-σ and d-π orbitals of Ti and W to “pull” the nitrogen molecule from both sides and activate the adsorbed nitrogen molecules. The ammonia synthesis rate of the LTWO catalysts was 2.6 times higher than that of plasma-only at 30 W, 1 bar, and 50 °C, offering new avenues for renewable plasma ammonia synthesis strategies.