Electrocatalysts for Nitrogen Reduction Reaction

Dear Colleagues,

The electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) has emerged as a sustainable alternative to the energy-intensive Haber–Bosch process for ammonia production, offering a green route under ambient conditions using water and renewable electricity. However, the NRR process faces critical challenges, including low selectivity and poor Faradaic efficiency, due to competing hydrogen evolution and sluggish N₂ activation. The development of high-performance electrocatalysts is thus essential to overcome these limitations and unlock practical NRR systems.

This Special Issue aims to present a comprehensive overview of the recent advances in NRR electrocatalysis, with a particular focus on the design, synthesis, and mechanistic understanding of catalysts that enable efficient nitrogen activation and ammonia formation. We welcome contributions on various emerging electrocatalytic materials and paired electrolysis systems. Insights from both experimental and theoretical perspectives, including in situ characterizations and DFT simulations, are highly encouraged. Studies addressing scalability, catalyst stability under industrial conditions, and techno-economic feasibility are also encouraged.

We are particularly interested in studies that demonstrate high ammonia yield, improved selectivity, and long-term stability under practical operating conditions. Through this Special Issue, we aim to provide a platform for innovative research that advances the development of scalable, sustainable ammonia electrosynthesis technologies.

Dr. Qiqi Mao
Guest Editor

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