Metallic MoO2 as a Highly Selective Catalyst for Electrochemical Nitrogen Fixation to Ammonia under Ambient Conditions

Abstract

AbstractThe development of earth‐abundant and non‐noble based metal catalysts for electrochemical nitrogen reduction towards sustainable ammonia production from N2 and H2O in the ambient atmosphere holds immense potential in realizing an alternate route to energy‐intensive Haber‐Bosch process. Herein, we have employed highly conductive MoO2 synthesized by hydrothermal route as an electrocatalyst for ammonia generation. The MoO2 catalyst was employed for electrochemical nitrogen reduction in N2 saturated 0.1 m HCl electrolyte in a two‐compartment cell. Ammonia yield rate of 2.30 μg h−1 mg−1cat and 2.40 % Faradaic efficiency has been obtained at a potential of −0.3 V vs. RHE. The MoO2 catalyst is selective for ammonia generation without any hydrazine formation. The metallic nature of MoO2 catalyst assists in achieving comparable activity for the electrochemical nitrogen reduction. The above catalyst has the potential for providing better ammonia yield rate by combining or doping with other active elements.