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Quan F, Zhan G, Xu P, Chen X, Shen W, Jia F, He Y, Li J. Electrochemical removal of nitrate in high-salt wastewater with low-cost iron electrode modified by phosphate. J Environ Sci (China) 2025; 148:38-45. [PMID: 39095173 DOI: 10.1016/j.jes.2024.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2023] [Revised: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
Nitrate (NO3-) is a widespread pollutant in high-salt wastewater and causes serious harm to human health. Although electrochemical removal of nitrate has been demonstrated to be a promising treatment method, the development of low-cost electro-catalysts is still challenging. In this work, a phosphate modified iron (P-Fe) cathode was prepared for electrochemical removal of nitrate in high-salt wastewater. The phosphate modification greatly improved the activity of iron, and the removal rate of nitrate on P-Fe was three times higher than that on Fe electrode. Further experiments and density functional theory (DFT) calculations demonstrated that the modification of phosphoric acid improved the stability and the activity of the zero-valent iron electrode effectively for NO3- removal. The nitrate was firstly electrochemically reduced to ammonium, and then reacted with the anodic generated hypochlorite to N2. In this study, a strategy was developed to improve the activity and stability of metal electrode for NO3- removal, which opened up a new field for the efficient reduction of NO3- removal by metal electrode materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengjiao Quan
- College of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, China
| | - Guangming Zhan
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Pengfei Xu
- College of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, China
| | - Xiaolan Chen
- College of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, China
| | - Wenjuan Shen
- College of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, China
| | - Falong Jia
- College of Chemistry, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, China.
| | - Yun He
- College of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, China
| | - Jianfen Li
- College of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, China
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2
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Zhou B, Yu L, Zhang W, Liu X, Zhang H, Cheng J, Chen Z, Zhang H, Li M, Shi Y, Jia F, Huang Y, Zhang L, Ai Z. Cu 1-Fe Dual Sites for Superior Neutral Ammonia Electrosynthesis from Nitrate. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202406046. [PMID: 38771293 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202406046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 05/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
The electrochemical nitrate reduction reaction (NO3RR) is able to convert nitrate (NO3 -) into reusable ammonia (NH3), offering a green treatment and resource utilization strategy of nitrate wastewater and ammonia synthesis. The conversion of NO3 - to NH3 undergoes water dissociation to generate active hydrogen atoms and nitrogen-containing intermediates hydrogenation tandemly. The two relay processes compete for the same active sites, especially under pH-neutral condition, resulting in the suboptimal efficiency and selectivity in the electrosynthesis of NH3 from NO3 -. Herein, we constructed a Cu1-Fe dual-site catalyst by anchoring Cu single atoms on amorphous iron oxide shell of nanoscale zero-valent iron (nZVI) for the electrochemical NO3RR, achieving an impressive NO3 - removal efficiency of 94.8 % and NH3 selectivity of 99.2 % under neutral pH and nitrate concentration of 50 mg L-1 NO3 --N conditions, greatly surpassing the performance of nZVI counterpart. This superior performance can be attributed to the synergistic effect of enhanced NO3 - adsorption on Fe sites and strengthened water activation on single-atom Cu sites, decreasing the energy barrier for the rate-determining step of *NO-to-*NOH. This work develops a novel strategy of fabricating dual-site catalysts to enhance the electrosynthesis of NH3 from NO3 -, and presents an environmentally sustainable approach for neutral nitrate wastewater treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biao Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Pesticide & Chemical Biology of Ministry of Education, Engineering Research Center of Photoenergy Utilization for Pollution Control and Carbon Reduction of Ministry of Education, Institute of Applied & Environmental Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, 430079, P. R. China
| | - Linghao Yu
- Key Laboratory of Pesticide & Chemical Biology of Ministry of Education, Engineering Research Center of Photoenergy Utilization for Pollution Control and Carbon Reduction of Ministry of Education, Institute of Applied & Environmental Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, 430079, P. R. China
| | - Weixing Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Pesticide & Chemical Biology of Ministry of Education, Engineering Research Center of Photoenergy Utilization for Pollution Control and Carbon Reduction of Ministry of Education, Institute of Applied & Environmental Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, 430079, P. R. China
| | - Xupeng Liu
- Key Laboratory of Pesticide & Chemical Biology of Ministry of Education, Engineering Research Center of Photoenergy Utilization for Pollution Control and Carbon Reduction of Ministry of Education, Institute of Applied & Environmental Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, 430079, P. R. China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Pesticide & Chemical Biology of Ministry of Education, Engineering Research Center of Photoenergy Utilization for Pollution Control and Carbon Reduction of Ministry of Education, Institute of Applied & Environmental Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, 430079, P. R. China
| | - Jundi Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Pesticide & Chemical Biology of Ministry of Education, Engineering Research Center of Photoenergy Utilization for Pollution Control and Carbon Reduction of Ministry of Education, Institute of Applied & Environmental Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, 430079, P. R. China
| | - Ziyue Chen
- Key Laboratory of Pesticide & Chemical Biology of Ministry of Education, Engineering Research Center of Photoenergy Utilization for Pollution Control and Carbon Reduction of Ministry of Education, Institute of Applied & Environmental Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, 430079, P. R. China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Pesticide & Chemical Biology of Ministry of Education, Engineering Research Center of Photoenergy Utilization for Pollution Control and Carbon Reduction of Ministry of Education, Institute of Applied & Environmental Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, 430079, P. R. China
| | - Meiqi Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, P. R. China
| | - Yanbiao Shi
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, P. R. China
| | - Falong Jia
- Key Laboratory of Pesticide & Chemical Biology of Ministry of Education, Engineering Research Center of Photoenergy Utilization for Pollution Control and Carbon Reduction of Ministry of Education, Institute of Applied & Environmental Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, 430079, P. R. China
| | - Yi Huang
- Key Laboratory of Pesticide & Chemical Biology of Ministry of Education, Engineering Research Center of Photoenergy Utilization for Pollution Control and Carbon Reduction of Ministry of Education, Institute of Applied & Environmental Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, 430079, P. R. China
| | - Lizhi Zhang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, P. R. China
| | - Zhihui Ai
- Key Laboratory of Pesticide & Chemical Biology of Ministry of Education, Engineering Research Center of Photoenergy Utilization for Pollution Control and Carbon Reduction of Ministry of Education, Institute of Applied & Environmental Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, 430079, P. R. China
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3
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Murphy E, Sun B, Rüscher M, Liu Y, Zang W, Guo S, Chen YH, Hejral U, Huang Y, Ly A, Zenyuk IV, Pan X, Timoshenko J, Cuenya BR, Spoerke ED, Atanassov P. Synergizing Fe 2O 3 Nanoparticles on Single Atom Fe-N-C for Nitrate Reduction to Ammonia at Industrial Current Densities. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2401133. [PMID: 38619914 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202401133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
The electrochemical reduction of nitrates (NO3 -) enables a pathway for the carbon neutral synthesis of ammonia (NH3), via the nitrate reduction reaction (NO3RR), which has been demonstrated at high selectivity. However, to make NH3 synthesis cost-competitive with current technologies, high NH3 partial current densities (jNH3) must be achieved to reduce the levelized cost of NH3. Here, the high NO3RR activity of Fe-based materials is leveraged to synthesize a novel active particle-active support system with Fe2O3 nanoparticles supported on atomically dispersed Fe-N-C. The optimized 3×Fe2O3/Fe-N-C catalyst demonstrates an ultrahigh NO3RR activity, reaching a maximum jNH3 of 1.95 A cm-2 at a Faradaic efficiency (FE) for NH3 of 100% and an NH3 yield rate over 9 mmol hr-1 cm-2. Operando XANES and post-mortem XPS reveal the importance of a pre-reduction activation step, reducing the surface Fe2O3 (Fe3+) to highly active Fe0 sites, which are maintained during electrolysis. Durability studies demonstrate the robustness of both the Fe2O3 particles and Fe-Nx sites at highly cathodic potentials, maintaining a current of -1.3 A cm-2 over 24 hours. This work exhibits an effective and durable active particle-active support system enhancing the performance of the NO3RR, enabling industrially relevant current densities and near 100% selectivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eamonn Murphy
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, National Fuel Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Baiyu Sun
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, National Fuel Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Martina Rüscher
- Department of Interface Science, Fritz-Haber-Institut der Max-Planck-Gesellschaft, 14195, Berlin, Germany
| | - Yuanchao Liu
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, National Fuel Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Wenjie Zang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Shengyuan Guo
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, National Fuel Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Yu-Han Chen
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, National Fuel Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Uta Hejral
- Department of Interface Science, Fritz-Haber-Institut der Max-Planck-Gesellschaft, 14195, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ying Huang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Alvin Ly
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Iryna V Zenyuk
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, National Fuel Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Xiaoqing Pan
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Janis Timoshenko
- Department of Interface Science, Fritz-Haber-Institut der Max-Planck-Gesellschaft, 14195, Berlin, Germany
| | - Beatriz Roldán Cuenya
- Department of Interface Science, Fritz-Haber-Institut der Max-Planck-Gesellschaft, 14195, Berlin, Germany
| | - Erik D Spoerke
- Sandia National Laboratories, Energy Storage Technologies & Systems, Albuquerque, NM, 87185, USA
| | - Plamen Atanassov
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, National Fuel Cell Research Center, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
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4
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Hu J, Tang C, Bi Z, Zhou S, Kong Q, Gao S, Liu X, Zhao X, Hu G. Self-supported iron-doped cobalt-copper oxide heterostructures for efficient electrocatalytic denitrification. J Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 675:313-325. [PMID: 38972119 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2024.06.206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 06/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
The electrocatalytic reduction of nitrate ions (NO3-) to nitrogen gas (N2) has emerged as an effective approach for mitigating nitrate pollution in water bodies. However, the development of efficient and highly selective cathode materials remains challenging. Conventional copper-based catalysts often exhibit low selectivity because they strongly adsorb oxygen. In this study, a straightforward solvothermal and pyrolysis method was used to grow iron-doped cobalt-copper oxide heterogeneous structures on copper foam surfaces (Fe-CoO/CuO@CF). Then, the effects of the applied potential, initial NO3- concentration, Cl- concentration, electrolyte pH, and different catalysts on the catalyst performance were investigated. Compared with recently reported congeners, Fe-CoO/CuO@CF is less expensive and exhibits outstanding activity for NO3- reduction. Meanwhile, under a cathode potential of - 1.31 V vs. Ag/AgCl, Fe-CoO/CuO@CF degrades 98.6 % of NO3- in 200 min. In addition, when employing a method inspired by NH4+ removal by breakpoint chlorination, N2 selectivity over Fe-CoO/CuO@CF was raised from 10 % without Cl- to 99.7 % when supplemented with Cl-. The catalyst demonstrated excellent cyclic stability, maintaining a high electrocatalytic activity for the conversion of NO3- to N2 gas over eleven cycles. Moreover, Fe-CoO/CuO@CF enabled 63.7 % removal of NO3- from wastewater (50 mg/L NO3--N) prepared from natural water, with 100 % conversion to N2. Computational studies showed that iron doping decreased the free energy change of the intermediate of NO3- reduction reaction. This study provides an effective strategy for the electrochemical reduction of nitrate to nitrogen gas and offers good prospects for addressing nitrate pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiao Hu
- Institute for Ecological Research and Pollution Control of Plateau Lakes, School of Ecology and Environmental Science, Yunnan University, Kunming 650504, China
| | - Cui Tang
- Institute for Ecological Research and Pollution Control of Plateau Lakes, School of Ecology and Environmental Science, Yunnan University, Kunming 650504, China
| | - Zenghui Bi
- Institute for Ecological Research and Pollution Control of Plateau Lakes, School of Ecology and Environmental Science, Yunnan University, Kunming 650504, China
| | - Shuxing Zhou
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Low Dimensional Optoelectronic Materials and Devices, Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang 441053, China.
| | - Qingquan Kong
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, China
| | - Sanshuang Gao
- MOE Key Laboratory of New Processing Technology for Non-ferrous Metals and Materials, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Processing for Non-ferrous Metals and Featured Materials, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Xijun Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of New Processing Technology for Non-ferrous Metals and Materials, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Processing for Non-ferrous Metals and Featured Materials, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Xue Zhao
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yunnan Normal University, Kunming 650500, China.
| | - Guangzhi Hu
- Institute for Ecological Research and Pollution Control of Plateau Lakes, School of Ecology and Environmental Science, Yunnan University, Kunming 650504, China.
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5
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Gao W, Sun J, Zhao G. Pd Clusters Loaded with Multivalent Cu Foam for Superior Electrochemical Nitrate Reduction and Selective N≡N Bond Formation. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2310597. [PMID: 38143296 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202310597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
The electrochemical denitrification of nitrate (NO3 -) in actual wastewater to nitrogen (N2) is an effective approach to reversing the current imbalance of the nitrogen cycle and the eutrophication of water. However, electrostatic repulsion between NO3 - and the cathode results in the low efficiency of NO3 - reduction reaction (NO3RR). Here, density functional theory (DFT) calculations are used as a theoretical guide to design a Pd cluster-loaded multivalent Cu foam (Pd/Cu2O-CF) electrocatalyst, which achieves a splendid 97.8% NO3 - removal rate, 97.9% N2 selectivity, 695.5 mg N g-1 Pd h-1 reduction efficiency, and 60.0% Faradaic efficiency at -1.3 V versus SCE. The projected density of states (pDOS) indicates that NO3 - and Pd/Cu2O-CF are bonded via strong complexation between the O 2p (in NO3 -) and Cu 3d (in Cu2O) with the input of voltage, which reduces the electrostatic repulsion and enhances the enrichment of NO3 - on the cathode. In-situ characterizations demonstrate that Pd[H] can reduce Cu2O to Cu, and subsequently Cu reduces NO3 - to nitrite (NO2 -) accompanied by in situ reconfiguration of multivalent Cu foam. NO2 - is then transferred to the surface of Pd clusters by the cascade catalysis and accelerates the breaking of N─O bonds to form Pd─N, and eventually achieves the N≡N bond formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiqi Gao
- Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury Repair and Regeneration, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital, School of Chemical Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Jie Sun
- Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury Repair and Regeneration, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital, School of Chemical Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Guohua Zhao
- Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury Repair and Regeneration, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital, School of Chemical Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China
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6
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Liu F, Zou Y, Liang H, Hu J, Li Y, Lin L, Li X, Li B. Trace Co(II) triggers peracetic acid activation in phosphate buffer: New insights into the oxidative species responsible for ciprofloxacin removal. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 467:133638. [PMID: 38354441 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Peracetic acid (PAA) emerges as a promising disinfectant and oxidant applied worldwide, and its application has been broadened for advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) in wastewater treatment. Current studies on transition metal-activated AOPs utilized relatively high concentrations of catalysts, leading to potential secondary pollution concerns. This study boosts the understanding of reaction mechanism in PAA activation system under a low-level concentration. Herein, trace levels of Co(II) (1 μM) and practical dosages of PAA (50-250 μM) were employed, achieving noticeable ciprofloxacin (CIP) degradation efficiencies (75.8-99.0%) within 20 min. Two orders of magnitude of the CIP's antibacterial activity significantly decreased after Co(II)/PAA AOP treatment, which suggested the effective ecological risk control capability of the reaction system. The degradation performed well in various water matrices and the primary reactive species is proposed to be CoHPO4-OO(O)CCH3 complexes with scavenging tests and electron paramagnetic resonance tests. The degradation pathway of fluoroquinolones including piperazine ring-opening (dealkylation and oxidation), defluorination, and decarboxylation, were systematically elucidated. This study boosts a comprehensive and novel understanding of PAA-based AOP for CIP degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feifei Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center for Urban Water Recycling and Environmental Safety, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China; School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Yubin Zou
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center for Urban Water Recycling and Environmental Safety, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China; School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; Shenzhen Environmental Science and New Energy Laboratory, Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Hebin Liang
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center for Urban Water Recycling and Environmental Safety, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Jiahui Hu
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center for Urban Water Recycling and Environmental Safety, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China; School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Yin Li
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center for Urban Water Recycling and Environmental Safety, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China; School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Lin Lin
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center for Urban Water Recycling and Environmental Safety, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Xiaoyan Li
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center for Urban Water Recycling and Environmental Safety, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China; Shenzhen Environmental Science and New Energy Laboratory, Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Bing Li
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Research Center for Urban Water Recycling and Environmental Safety, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China.
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Xiong Y, Wang Y, Zhou J, Liu F, Hao F, Fan Z. Electrochemical Nitrate Reduction: Ammonia Synthesis and the Beyond. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2304021. [PMID: 37294062 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202304021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Natural nitrogen cycle has been severely disrupted by anthropogenic activities. The overuse of N-containing fertilizers induces the increase of nitrate level in surface and ground waters, and substantial emission of nitrogen oxides causes heavy air pollution. Nitrogen gas, as the main component of air, has been used for mass ammonia production for over a century, providing enough nutrition for agriculture to support world population increase. In the last decade, researchers have made great efforts to develop ammonia processes under ambient conditions to combat the intensive energy consumption and high carbon emission associated with the Haber-Bosch process. Among different techniques, electrochemical nitrate reduction reaction (NO3RR) can achieve nitrate removal and ammonia generation simultaneously using renewable electricity as the power, and there is an exponential growth of studies in this research direction. Here, a timely and comprehensive review on the important progresses of electrochemical NO3RR, covering the rational design of electrocatalysts, emerging CN coupling reactions, and advanced energy conversion and storage systems is provided. Moreover, future perspectives are proposed to accelerate the industrialized NH3 production and green synthesis of chemicals, leading to a sustainable nitrogen cycle via prosperous N-based electrochemistry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuecheng Xiong
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, P. R. China
- Hong Kong Branch of National Precious Metals Material Engineering Research Center (NPMM), City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Yunhao Wang
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Jingwen Zhou
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, P. R. China
- Hong Kong Branch of National Precious Metals Material Engineering Research Center (NPMM), City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Fu Liu
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Fengkun Hao
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Zhanxi Fan
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, P. R. China
- Hong Kong Branch of National Precious Metals Material Engineering Research Center (NPMM), City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, P. R. China
- City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, P. R. China
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8
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Zhang H, Wang H, Cao X, Chen M, Liu Y, Zhou Y, Huang M, Xia L, Wang Y, Li T, Zheng D, Luo Y, Sun S, Zhao X, Sun X. Unveiling Cutting-Edge Developments in Electrocatalytic Nitrate-to-Ammonia Conversion. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2312746. [PMID: 38198832 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202312746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
The excessive enrichment of nitrate in the environment can be converted into ammonia (NH3) through electrochemical processes, offering significant implications for modern agriculture and the potential to reduce the burden of the Haber-Bosch (HB) process while achieving environmentally friendly NH3 production. Emerging research on electrocatalytic nitrate reduction (eNitRR) to NH3 has gained considerable momentum in recent years for efficient NH3 synthesis. However, existing reviews on nitrate reduction have primarily focused on limited aspects, often lacking a comprehensive summary of catalysts, reaction systems, reaction mechanisms, and detection methods employed in nitrate reduction. This review aims to provide a timely and comprehensive analysis of the eNitRR field by integrating existing research progress and identifying current challenges. This review offers a comprehensive overview of the research progress achieved using various materials in electrochemical nitrate reduction, elucidates the underlying theoretical mechanism behind eNitRR, and discusses effective strategies based on numerous case studies to enhance the electrochemical reduction from NO3 - to NH3. Finally, this review discusses challenges and development prospects in the eNitRR field with an aim to guide design and development of large-scale sustainable nitrate reduction electrocatalysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haoran Zhang
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Petrochemical Environmental Pollution Control, National Engineering Research Center for Marine Aquaculture, Zhejiang Ocean University, Zhoushan, Zhejiang, 316004, China
| | - Haijian Wang
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Petrochemical Environmental Pollution Control, National Engineering Research Center for Marine Aquaculture, Zhejiang Ocean University, Zhoushan, Zhejiang, 316004, China
| | - Xiqian Cao
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Petrochemical Environmental Pollution Control, National Engineering Research Center for Marine Aquaculture, Zhejiang Ocean University, Zhoushan, Zhejiang, 316004, China
| | - Mengshan Chen
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Petrochemical Environmental Pollution Control, National Engineering Research Center for Marine Aquaculture, Zhejiang Ocean University, Zhoushan, Zhejiang, 316004, China
| | - Yuelong Liu
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yunnan Normal University, Kunming, Yunnan, 650092, China
| | - Yingtang Zhou
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Petrochemical Environmental Pollution Control, National Engineering Research Center for Marine Aquaculture, Zhejiang Ocean University, Zhoushan, Zhejiang, 316004, China
| | - Ming Huang
- Institute of Fundamental and Frontier Sciences, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610054, China
| | - Lu Xia
- ICFO-Institut de Ciències Fotòniques, The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Castelldefels, Barcelona, 08860, Spain
| | - Yan Wang
- Institute of Fundamental and Frontier Sciences, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610054, China
| | - Tingshuai Li
- Institute of Fundamental and Frontier Sciences, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610054, China
| | - Dongdong Zheng
- College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, Shandong, 250014, China
| | - Yongsong Luo
- College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, Shandong, 250014, China
| | - Shengjun Sun
- College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, Shandong, 250014, China
| | - Xue Zhao
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yunnan Normal University, Kunming, Yunnan, 650092, China
| | - Xuping Sun
- Institute of Fundamental and Frontier Sciences, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610054, China
- College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, Shandong, 250014, China
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9
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Teng M, Yuan J, Li Y, Shi C, Xu Z, Ma C, Yang L, Zhang C, Gao J, Li Y. Bimetallic atom synergistic covalent organic framework for efficient electrochemical nitrate reduction. J Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 654:348-355. [PMID: 37844506 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2023.10.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
Electrochemical reduction has emerged as an effective method to remove nitrate from industrial wastewater. Nevertheless, this method has been largely restricted by the lack of low-cost and efficient electrocatalysts. Here, we demonstrate a porous two-dimensional covalent organic framework (2D COF) material as a promising electrocatalyst, which is obtained via a Schiff base reaction by combining copper phthalocyanine with bipyridine sites for precise copper coordination. The bidentate coordinated COF material has a robust framework and stable chemical property, allowing the isolated Cu sites to be embedded into the regular pores with controlled and uniformly dispersed active centers. The well-defined design of the reaction monomers makes the COF material to trap nitrate ions more easily from aqueous solution. By rationally combining the synergistic effect of 2D COF and Cu active sites, the CuTAPc-CuBPy-COF electrocatalyst shows much higher nitrate reduction efficiency than CuTAPc-BPy-COF under low superpotential and different nitrate concentrations. The high NO3- conversion (90.3 %) and NH3 selectivity (69.6 %) are achieved. To our best acknowledge, this is the first demonstration of bi-copper-based COF material for NO3-RR electrocatalysis, which provides a new direction for the rational design of COFs as significant electrocatalysts for nitrate reduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Teng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Micro and Nano Heat Fluid Flow Technology and Energy Application, School of Physical Science and Technology, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215009, China
| | - Junwei Yuan
- School of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215009, China
| | - Yixiang Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Micro and Nano Heat Fluid Flow Technology and Energy Application, School of Physical Science and Technology, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215009, China
| | - Chunyan Shi
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Micro and Nano Heat Fluid Flow Technology and Energy Application, School of Physical Science and Technology, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215009, China
| | - Zheng Xu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Micro and Nano Heat Fluid Flow Technology and Energy Application, School of Physical Science and Technology, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215009, China
| | - Chunlan Ma
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Micro and Nano Heat Fluid Flow Technology and Energy Application, School of Physical Science and Technology, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215009, China
| | - Liujun Yang
- College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, China.
| | - Cheng Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Micro and Nano Heat Fluid Flow Technology and Energy Application, School of Physical Science and Technology, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215009, China.
| | - Ju Gao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Micro and Nano Heat Fluid Flow Technology and Energy Application, School of Physical Science and Technology, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215009, China
| | - Yang Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Micro and Nano Heat Fluid Flow Technology and Energy Application, School of Physical Science and Technology, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215009, China; The Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China.
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10
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Luo H, Li S, Wu Z, Liu Y, Luo W, Li W, Zhang D, Chen J, Yang J. Modulating the Active Hydrogen Adsorption on Fe─N Interface for Boosted Electrocatalytic Nitrate Reduction with Ultra-Long Stability. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2304695. [PMID: 37488087 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202304695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
The electrocatalytic reduction of nitrate (NO3 - ) to nitrogen (N2 ) is an environmentally friendly approach for efficient N-cycle management (toward a nitrogen-neutral cycle). However, poor catalyst durability and the competitive hydrogen evolution reaction significantly impede its practical application. Interface-chemistry engineering, utilizing the close relationship between the catalyst surface/interface microenvironment and electron/proton transfer process, has facilitated the development of catalysts with high intrinsic activity and physicochemical durability. This study reports the synthesis of a nitrogen-doped carbon-coated rice-like iron nitride (RL-Fe2 N@NC) electrocatalyst with excellent electrocatalytic nitrate-reduction reaction activity (high N2 selectivity (≈96%) and NO3 - conversion (≈86%)). According to detailed mechanistic investigations by in situ tests and theoretical calculations, the strong hydrogenation ability of iron nitride and enhanced nitrate enrichment of the system synergistically contribute to the rapid hydrogenation of nitrogen-containing species, increasing the intrinsic activity of the catalyst and reducing the occurrence of the competing hydrogen-evolution side reaction. Moreover, RL-Fe2 N@NC shows excellent stability, retaining good NO3 - -to-N2 electrocatalysis activity for more than 40 cycles (one cycle per day). This paper could guide the interfacial design of Fe-based composite nanostructures for electrocatalytic nitrate reduction, facilitating a shift toward nitrogen neutrality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongxia Luo
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Shuangjun Li
- The Education Ministry Key Lab of Resource Chemistry, Joint International Research Laboratory of Resource Chemistry of Ministry of Education, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Functional Materials, and, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Biomimetic Catalysis, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, 200234, China
| | - Ziyang Wu
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Yanbiao Liu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Textile Pollution Controlling Engineering Center of Ministry of Ecology and Environmental, Donghua University, 2999 North Renmin Road, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Wei Luo
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Chemistry, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Dieqing Zhang
- The Education Ministry Key Lab of Resource Chemistry, Joint International Research Laboratory of Resource Chemistry of Ministry of Education, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Rare Earth Functional Materials, and, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Biomimetic Catalysis, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai, 200234, China
| | - Jun Chen
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Electromaterials Science, Intelligent Polymer Research Institute, Australian Institute of Innovative Materials, Innovation Campus, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
| | - Jianping Yang
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
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11
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Zhang F, Luo J, Chen J, Luo H, Jiang M, Yang C, Zhang H, Chen J, Dong A, Yang J. Interfacial Assembly of Nanocrystals on Nanofibers with Strong Interaction for Electrocatalytic Nitrate Reduction. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202310383. [PMID: 37550249 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202310383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
One-dimensional fiber architecture serves as an excellent catalyst support. The orderly arrangement of active materials on such a fiber substrate can enhance catalytic performance by exposing more active sites and facilitating mass diffusion; however, this remains a challenge. We developed an interfacial assembly strategy for the orderly distribution of metal nanocrystals on different fiber substrates to optimize their electrocatalytic performance. Using electrochemical nitrate reduction reaction (NO3 - RR) as a representative reaction, the iron-based nanofibers (Fe/NFs) assembly structure achieved an excellent nitrate removal capacity of 2317 mg N/g Fe and N2 selectivity up to 97.2 %. This strategy could promote the rational design and synthesis of fiber-based electrocatalysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangzhou Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, P. R. China
| | - Jiamei Luo
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, P. R. China
| | - Junliang Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, P. R. China
| | - Hongxia Luo
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, P. R. China
| | - Miaomiao Jiang
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, P. R. China
| | - Chenxi Yang
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, P. R. China
| | - Hui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, P. R. China
| | - Jun Chen
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Electromaterials Science, Intelligent Polymer Research Institute (IPRI), Australian Institute of Innovative Materials (AIIM), University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Angang Dong
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemistry for Energy Materials, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, and Department of Chemistry, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Jianping Yang
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, P. R. China
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12
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Huang L, Cheng L, Ma T, Zhang JJ, Wu H, Su J, Song Y, Zhu H, Liu Q, Zhu M, Zeng Z, He Q, Tse MK, Yang DT, Yakobson BI, Tang BZ, Ren Y, Ye R. Direct Synthesis of Ammonia from Nitrate on Amorphous Graphene with Near 100% Efficiency. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2211856. [PMID: 36799267 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202211856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2022] [Revised: 02/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Ammonia is an indispensable commodity in the agricultural and pharmaceutical industries. Direct nitrate-to-ammonia electroreduction is a decentralized route yet challenged by competing side reactions. Most catalysts are metal-based, and metal-free catalysts with high nitrate-to-ammonia conversion activity are rarely reported. Herein, it is shown that amorphous graphene synthesized by laser induction and comprising strained and disordered pentagons, hexagons, and heptagons can electrocatalyze the eight-electron reduction of NO3 - to NH3 with a Faradaic efficiency of ≈100% and an ammonia production rate of 2859 µg cm-2 h-1 at -0.93 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode. X-ray pair-distribution function analysis and electron microscopy reveal the unique molecular features of amorphous graphene that facilitate NO3 - reduction. In situ Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and theoretical calculations establish the critical role of these features in stabilizing the reaction intermediates via structural relaxation. The enhanced catalytic activity enables the implementation of flow electrolysis for the on-demand synthesis and release of ammonia with >70% selectivity, resulting in significantly increased yields and survival rates when applied to plant cultivation. The results of this study show significant promise for remediating nitrate-polluted water and completing the NOx cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Libei Huang
- Department of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
- Division of Science, Engineering and Health Study, School of Professional Education and Executive Development (PolyU SPEED), The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Le Cheng
- Department of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Tinghao Ma
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, 710072, P. R. China
| | - Jun-Jie Zhang
- Department of Materials Science and Nano Engineering and Department of Chemistry, Rice University, 6100 Main Street, Houston, TX, 77005, USA
| | - Haikun Wu
- Department of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Jianjun Su
- Department of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Yun Song
- Department of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - He Zhu
- Department of Physics, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Qi Liu
- Department of Physics, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Minghui Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, P. R. China
| | - Zhiyuan Zeng
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Qiyuan He
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Man-Kit Tse
- Department of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Deng-Tao Yang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, 710072, P. R. China
| | - Boris I Yakobson
- Department of Materials Science and Nano Engineering and Department of Chemistry, Rice University, 6100 Main Street, Houston, TX, 77005, USA
| | - Ben Zhong Tang
- School of Science and Engineering, Shenzhen Institute of Aggregate Science and Technology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518172, P. R. China
| | - Yang Ren
- Department of Physics, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
- X-Ray Science Division, Argonne National Laboratory, 9700 S. Cass Ave., Argonne, IL, 60439, USA
| | - Ruquan Ye
- Department of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
- City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518057, China
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13
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Sun J, Zhang X, Zhang H, Ruan G, Wang X, Han X, Yuan M, Wang T, Xu H, Wu C, Wang Q. Copper/carbon nanotube catalysts prepared by ion-exchange/electroreduction for electrocatalytic nitrate reduction: Enhanced performance and mechanism insight. J Electroanal Chem (Lausanne) 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jelechem.2023.117377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2023]
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14
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Yuan S, Xue Y, Ma R, Ma Q, Chen Y, Fan J. Advances in iron-based electrocatalysts for nitrate reduction. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 866:161444. [PMID: 36621470 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.161444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Excessive nitrate has been a critical issue in the water environment, originating from the burning of fossil fuels, inefficient use of nitrogen fertilizers, and discharge of domestic and industrial wastewater. Among the effective treatments for nitrate reduction, electrocatalysis has become an advanced technique because it uses electrons as green reducing agents and can achieve high selectivity through cathode potential control. The effectiveness of electrocatalytic nitrate reduction (NO3RR) mainly lies in the electrocatalyst. Iron-based catalysts have the advantages of high activity and low cost, which are well-used in the field of electrocatalytic nitrates. A comprehensive overview of the electrocatalytic mechanism and the iron-based materials for NO3RR are given in terms of monometallic iron-based materials as well as bimetallic and oxide iron-based materials. A detailed introduction to NO3RR on zero valent iron, single-atom iron catalysts, and Cu/Fe-based bimetallic electrocatalysts are provided, as they are essential for the improvement of NO3RR performance. Finally, the advantages of iron-based materials for NO3RR and the problems in current applications are summarized, and the development prospects of efficient iron-based catalysts are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiyin Yuan
- State key laboratory of pollution control and Resource reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, 1239 Siping Road, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Yinghao Xue
- State key laboratory of pollution control and Resource reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, 1239 Siping Road, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Raner Ma
- State key laboratory of pollution control and Resource reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, 1239 Siping Road, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Qian Ma
- State key laboratory of pollution control and Resource reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, 1239 Siping Road, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Yanyan Chen
- State key laboratory of pollution control and Resource reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, 1239 Siping Road, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Jianwei Fan
- State key laboratory of pollution control and Resource reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, 1239 Siping Road, Shanghai 200092, China.
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15
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Li Y, Mao X, Chen C, Zhang L, Liu W, Wang X, He L, Xu T. Highly Selective Reduction of Nitrate by Zero-Valent Aluminum (ZVAI) Ball-Milled Materials at Circumneutral pH: Important Role of Microgalvanic Cells for Depassivation of ZVAl and N 2-Selectivity. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:4568-4577. [PMID: 36848326 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c09727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The passivation of zero-valent aluminum (ZVAl) limits its application in environmental remediation. Herein, a ternary composite material Al-Fe-AC is synthesized via a ball-milling treatment on a mixture of Al0, Fe0, and activated carbon (AC) powders. The results show that the as-prepared micronsized Al-Fe-AC powder could achieve highly efficient nitrate removal and a nitrogen (N2)-selectivity of >75%. The mechanism study reveals that, in the initial stage, numerous Al//AC and Fe//AC microgalvanic cells in the Al-Fe-AC material could lead to a local alkaline environment in the vicinity of the AC cathodes. The local alkalinity depassivated the Al0 component and enabled its continuous dissolution in the subsequent second stage of reaction. The functioning of the AC cathode of the Al//AC microgalvanic cell is revealed as the primary reason accounting for the highly selective reduction of nitrate. The investigation on the mass ratio of raw materials manifested that an Al/Fe/AC mass ratio of 1:1:5 or 1:3:5 was preferable. The test in simulated groundwater suggested that the as-prepared Al-Fe-AC powder could be injected into aquifers to achieve a highly selective reduction of nitrate to nitrogen. This study provides a feasible method to develop high-performance ZVAl-based remedial materials that could work in a wider pH range.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Li
- School of Resources and Environmental Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Xuhui Mao
- School of Resources and Environmental Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Chaoqi Chen
- School of Resources and Environmental Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Lieyu Zhang
- Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Wenjie Liu
- School of Resources and Environmental Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
- Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Xu Wang
- School of Resources and Environmental Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Lang He
- Department of Earth and Environment, Franklin and Marshall College, Lancaster, Pennsylvania 17604-3003, United States
| | - Tao Xu
- School of Resources and Environmental Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
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16
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He L, Zeng T, Yao F, Zhong Y, Tan C, Pi Z, Hou K, Chen S, Li X, Yang Q. Electrocatalytic reduction of nitrate by carbon encapsulated Cu-Fe electroactive nanocatalysts on Ni foam. J Colloid Interface Sci 2023; 634:440-449. [PMID: 36542973 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2022.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Electrocatalytic denitrification is an attractive and effective method for complete elimination of nitrate (NO3-). However, its application is limited by the activity and stability of the electrocatalyst. In this work, a novel bimetallic electrode was synthesized, in which N-doped graphitized carbon sealed with Cu and Fe nanoparticles and immobilized them on nickel foam (CuFe NPs@NC/NF) without any chemical binder. The immobilized Cu-Fe nanoparticles not only facilitated the adsorption of the reactant but also enhanced the electron transfer between the cathode and NO3-, thus promoting the electrochemical reduction of NO3-. Therefore, the as-prepared electrode exhibited enhanced electrocatalytic activity for NO3- reduction. The composite electrode with the Cu/Fe molar ratio of 1:2 achieved the highest NO3- removal (79.4 %) and the lowest energy consumption (0.0023 kW h mg-1). Furthermore, the composite electrode had a robust NO3- removal capacity under various conditions. Benefitting from the electrochlorination on the anode, this electrochemical system achieved nitrogen (N2) selectivity of 94.0 %. Moreover, CuFe NPs@NC/NF exhibited good stability after 15 cycles, which should be attributed to the graphitized carbon layer. This study confirmed that CuFe NPs@NC/NF electrode is a promising and inexpensive electrode with long-term stability for electrocatalytic denitrification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li He
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha, 410082, PR China.
| | - Tianjing Zeng
- Hunan Ecological and Environmental Monitoring Center, Changsha, 410027, PR China
| | - Fubing Yao
- School of Metallurgy and Environment, Central South University, Changsha, 410083, PR China; Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Control and Treatment of Heavy Metal Pollution, Changsha, 410083, PR China.
| | - Yu Zhong
- Key Laboratory of Water Pollution Control Technology, Hunan Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Changsha, 410004, PR China
| | - Chang Tan
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha, 410082, PR China
| | - Zhoujie Pi
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha, 410082, PR China
| | - Kunjie Hou
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha, 410082, PR China
| | - Shengjie Chen
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha, 410082, PR China
| | - Xiaoming Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha, 410082, PR China
| | - Qi Yang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha, 410082, PR China.
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17
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Duan W, Chen Y, Ma H, Lee JF, Lin YJ, Feng C. In Situ Reconstruction of Metal Oxide Cathodes for Ammonium Generation from High-Strength Nitrate Wastewater: Elucidating the Role of the Substrate in the Performance of Co 3O 4-x. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:3893-3904. [PMID: 36813703 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c09147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
In situ electrochemical reconstruction is important for transition metal oxides explored as electrocatalysts for electrochemical nitrate reduction reactions (ENRRs). Herein, we report substantial performance enhancement of ammonium generation on Co, Fe, Ni, Cu, Ti, and W oxide-based cathodes upon reconstruction. Among them, the performance of a freestanding ER-Co3O4-x/CF (Co3O4 grown on Co foil subjected to electrochemical reduction) cathode was superior to its unreconstructed counterpart and other cathodes; e.g., an ammonium yield of 0.46 mmol h-1 cm-2, an ammonium selectivity of 100%, and a Faradaic efficiency of 99.9% were attained at -1.3 V in a 1400 mg L-1 NO3--N solution. The reconstruction behaviors were found to vary with the underlying substrate. The inert carbon cloth only acted as a supporting matrix for immobilizing Co3O4, without appreciable electronic interactions between them. A combination of physicochemical characterizations and theoretical modeling provided compelling evidence that the CF-promoted self-reconstruction of Co3O4 induced the evolution of metallic Co and the creation of oxygen vacancies, which promoted and optimized interfacial nitrate adsorption and water dissociation, thus boosting the ENRR performance. The ER-Co3O4-x/CF cathode performed well over wide ranges of pH and applied current and at high nitrate loadings, ensuring its high efficacy in treating high-strength real wastewater.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weijian Duan
- The Key Lab of Pollution Control and Ecosystem Restoration in Industry Clusters, Ministry of Education, School of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
| | - Yanyan Chen
- The Key Lab of Pollution Control and Ecosystem Restoration in Industry Clusters, Ministry of Education, School of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
| | - Huanxin Ma
- The Key Lab of Pollution Control and Ecosystem Restoration in Industry Clusters, Ministry of Education, School of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
| | - Jyh-Fu Lee
- National Synchrotron Radiation Research Center, Hsinchu, Taiwan 30076, R. O. C
| | - Yu-Jung Lin
- National Synchrotron Radiation Research Center, Hsinchu, Taiwan 30076, R. O. C
| | - Chunhua Feng
- The Key Lab of Pollution Control and Ecosystem Restoration in Industry Clusters, Ministry of Education, School of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, P. R. China
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18
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Gong L, Zhang L. Oxyanion-modified zero valent iron with excellent pollutant removal performance. Chem Commun (Camb) 2023; 59:2081-2089. [PMID: 36723230 DOI: 10.1039/d2cc06814a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Oxyanion-modified zero valent iron (OM-ZVI), including oxyanion-modified microscale ZVI (OM-mZVI) and nanoscale zero valent iron (OM-nZVI), has attracted growing interest in recent years for their excellent pollutant removal performance. This feature article summarizes the recent progress of OM-ZVI materials, including their synthesis, characterization, enhanced pollutant removal performance, and structure-property relationships. Generally, OM-ZVI could be synthesized with wet chemical and mechanochemical (ball-milling) methods and then characterized with state-of-the-art characterization techniques (e.g., X-ray-based spectroscopy, electron microscopy) to reveal their structure and physicochemical properties. We found that phosphate modification could form iron-phosphate on the nZVI surface, facilitating Cr(VI) removal, while the phosphorylation process could induce tensile hoop stress to produce numerous radial nanocracks in the structurally-dense spherical nZVI for enhanced Ni(II) removal via a boosted Kirkendall effect. Oxalate modification could trigger electron delocalization to increase electron cloud density and surface-bound Fe(II) of mZVI for enhanced Cr(VI) removal, while oxalated mZVI exhibited more efficient Cr(VI) removal performance via an in situ formed FeC2O4·2H2O shell of high proton conductivity, favoring Cr(VI) reduction. Differently, the mechanochemical treatment of mZVI with B2O3 could exert tensile strain on it through interstitial boron doping, thereby promoting the release and transfer of electrons from its Fe(0) core to its iron oxide shell for dramatic Cr(VI) reduction. This article aims to demonstrate the potential of OM-ZVI for pollution control and environmental remediation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Gong
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, P. R. China.
| | - Lizhi Zhang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, P. R. China. .,Key Laboratory of Pesticide & Chemical Biology of Ministry of Education, Institute of Applied & Environmental Chemistry, College of Chemistry Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, P. R. China
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Zhang J, He W, Quast T, Junqueira JRC, Saddeler S, Schulz S, Schuhmann W. Single-entity Electrochemistry Unveils Dynamic Transformation during Tandem Catalysis of Cu 2 O and Co 3 O 4 for Converting NO 3 - to NH 3. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202214830. [PMID: 36469860 PMCID: PMC10108016 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202214830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2022] [Revised: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Electrochemically converting nitrate to ammonia is an essential and sustainable approach to restoring the globally perturbed nitrogen cycle. The rational design of catalysts for the nitrate reduction reaction (NO3 RR) based on a detailed understanding of the reaction mechanism is of high significance. We report a Cu2 O+Co3 O4 tandem catalyst which enhances the NH3 production rate by ≈2.7-fold compared to Co3 O4 and ≈7.5-fold compared with Cu2 O, respectively, however, most importantly, we precisely place single Cu2 O and Co3 O4 cube-shaped nanoparticles individually and together on carbon nanoelectrodes provide insight into the mechanism of the tandem catalysis. The structural and phase evolution of the individual Cu2 O+Co3 O4 nanocubes during NO3 RR is unveiled using identical location transmission electron microscopy. Combining single-entity electrochemistry with precise nano-placement sheds light on the dynamic transformation of single catalyst particles during tandem catalysis in a direct way.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Zhang
- Analytical Chemistry-Center for Electrochemical Sciences (CES), Faculty of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Ruhr University Bochum, Universitätsstr. 150, 44780, Bochum, Germany
| | - Wenhui He
- Analytical Chemistry-Center for Electrochemical Sciences (CES), Faculty of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Ruhr University Bochum, Universitätsstr. 150, 44780, Bochum, Germany
| | - Thomas Quast
- Analytical Chemistry-Center for Electrochemical Sciences (CES), Faculty of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Ruhr University Bochum, Universitätsstr. 150, 44780, Bochum, Germany
| | - João R C Junqueira
- Analytical Chemistry-Center for Electrochemical Sciences (CES), Faculty of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Ruhr University Bochum, Universitätsstr. 150, 44780, Bochum, Germany
| | - Sascha Saddeler
- Analytical Chemistry-Center for Electrochemical Sciences (CES), Faculty of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Ruhr University Bochum, Universitätsstr. 150, 44780, Bochum, Germany.,Inorganic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry and Center for Nanointegration Duisburg-Essen (Cenide), University of Duisburg-Essen, Universitätsstr. 7, 45141, Essen, Germany
| | - Stephan Schulz
- Inorganic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry and Center for Nanointegration Duisburg-Essen (Cenide), University of Duisburg-Essen, Universitätsstr. 7, 45141, Essen, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Schuhmann
- Analytical Chemistry-Center for Electrochemical Sciences (CES), Faculty of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Ruhr University Bochum, Universitätsstr. 150, 44780, Bochum, Germany
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Bian X, Shi F, Li J, Liang J, Bao C, Zhang H, Jia J, Li K. Highly selective electrocatalytic reduction of nitrate to nitrogen in a chloride ion-free system by promoting kinetic mass transfer of intermediate products in a novel Pd-Cu adsorption confined cathode. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2022; 324:116405. [PMID: 36352730 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2022.116405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The mass transfer on the catalyst surface has a great influence on the selectivity of electrocatalytic nitrate reduction to nitrogen. In this study, a Pd-Cu adsorption confined nickel foam cathode is designed in the absence of both proton exchange membranes and chloride ions. The repulsion of the cathode enables intermediate products such as nitrite to accumulate in the confined region, resulting in an increase in the possibility of a second-order reaction to form nitrogen. The system can obtain more than 92% continuous N2 selectivity when it is used to treat 200 mg L-1 NO3--N under a current density of 8 mA cm-2, which is not only higher than those of semiconfined and nonconfined systems but also significantly better than the results obtained by Pd-Cu directly modified cathodes prepared by electrodeposition or impregnation. It is found that a high initial nitrate concentration and low current density are more beneficial for the accumulation of intermediates on Pd-Cu catalysts, thus improving the formation of nitrogen. A mechanism study reveals that the intermediates can completely occupy the active sites on the surface of Pd, avoiding the generation of active hydrogen, and therefore inhibiting the first-order reaction to produce ammonia. Moreover, the reducibility of Pd-Cu can also be gradually improved under the function of the cathode so that the system exhibits good stability. This study demonstrates an environmentally friendly and promising method for total nitrogen removal from industrial wastewater with high conductivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingchen Bian
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No. 800, Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 200240, PR China
| | - Feng Shi
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No. 800, Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 200240, PR China
| | - Jingdong Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No. 800, Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 200240, PR China
| | - Jianxing Liang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No. 800, Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 200240, PR China
| | - Chenyu Bao
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No. 800, Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 200240, PR China
| | - Hongbo Zhang
- School of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Shanghai Institute of Technology, Shanghai, 201418, PR China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Solid Waste Treatment and Resource Recovery, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, PR China
| | - Jinping Jia
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No. 800, Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 200240, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hydrogen Science & Center of Hydrogen Science, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, PR China
| | - Kan Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No. 800, Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 200240, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Hydrogen Science & Center of Hydrogen Science, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, PR China.
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Pathway and mechanism study on improvement of N2 selectivity of catalytic denitrification. JOURNAL OF SAUDI CHEMICAL SOCIETY 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jscs.2022.101577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Chu J, Liu Z, Jiang L, Cai F, Sun C, Kong A, Ding H. Coordination polymers-derived core-shell Co@N–C nanostructures as efficient dual functional catalysts for nitrate electroreduction and Fenton-like catalytic dye degradation. J SOLID STATE CHEM 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jssc.2022.123485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
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Wang C, Zhang Y, Luo H, Zhang H, Li W, Zhang WX, Yang J. Iron-Based Nanocatalysts for Electrochemical Nitrate Reduction. SMALL METHODS 2022; 6:e2200790. [PMID: 36103612 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202200790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Nitrate has a high level of stability and persistence in water, endangering human health and aquatic ecosystems. Due to its high reliability and efficiency, the electrochemical nitrate reduction reaction (NO3 RR) is regarded as the best available option for mitigating excess nitrate in water and wastewater, especially for the removal of trace levels of nitrate. One of the most critical factors in the electrochemical reduction are the catalysts, which directly affect the reaction efficiency of nitrate removal. Iron-based nanocatalysts, which have the advantages of nontoxicity, wide availability, and low cost, have emerged as a promising electrochemical NO3 RR material in recent years. This review covers major aspects of iron-based nanocatalysts for electrochemical NO3 RR, including synthetic methods, structural design, performance enhancement, electrocatalytic nitrate reduction test, and reduction mechanism. The recent progress of iron-based nanocatalysts for electrochemical NO3 RR and the mechanism of functional advantages for modified structures are reviewed from the perspectives of loading, doping, and assembly strategies, in order to realize the conversion from pollutant nitrate to harmless nitrogen or ammonia and other sustainable products. Finally, challenges and future directions for the development of low-cost and highly-efficient iron-based nanocatalysts are explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuqi Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Yingbing Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Hongxia Luo
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Hui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Chemistry, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Wei-Xian Zhang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resources Reuse, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, P. R. China
| | - Jianping Yang
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
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Teng M, Ye J, Wan C, He G, Chen H. Research Progress on Cu-Based Catalysts for Electrochemical Nitrate Reduction Reaction to Ammonia. Ind Eng Chem Res 2022. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.iecr.2c02495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mengjuan Teng
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Catalytic Materials and Technology, Advanced Catalysis and Green Manufacturing Collaborative Innovation Center, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jingrui Ye
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Catalytic Materials and Technology, Advanced Catalysis and Green Manufacturing Collaborative Innovation Center, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Chao Wan
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Catalytic Materials and Technology, Advanced Catalysis and Green Manufacturing Collaborative Innovation Center, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Guangyu He
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Catalytic Materials and Technology, Advanced Catalysis and Green Manufacturing Collaborative Innovation Center, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Haiqun Chen
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Catalytic Materials and Technology, Advanced Catalysis and Green Manufacturing Collaborative Innovation Center, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, Jiangsu Province, China
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Liu X, Wang Y, Smith RL, Liu L, Qi X. Synthesis of self-renewing Fe(0)-dispersed ordered mesoporous carbon for electrocatalytic reduction of nitrates to nitrogen. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 836:155640. [PMID: 35513147 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.155640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
In electrocatalytic reduction of nitrates to nitrogen, key issues are electrode activity, sustainable materials, preparation methods and cost. Herein, lignin, Fe3+ ion, and non-ionic surfactant were combined with evaporation-induced self-assembly (EISA) to prepare zero-valent Fe-dispersed ordered mesoporous carbon (OMC) electrode materials denoted as Fe#OMC. The method developed for preparing Fe-coordinated OMC material avoids the use of toxic phenols, aldehyde reagents and metal doping compounds. When synthesized Fe#OMC samples were applied as electrode materials for the electrocatalytic reduction of nitrate in aqueous solutions, maximum nitrate nitrogen removal was as high as 5373 mg N·g-1 Fe from aqueous solutions containing 400 mg·L-1 NO3--N, while nitrogen selectivity was close to 100%, exceeding catalytic performance of comparable materials. Active hydrogen produced by electrolysis of water during the reaction re-reduced Fe ions formed in the OMC material and stabilized Fe#OMC electrode performance and recycle. The Fe#OMC electrode is self-renewing with respect to its Fe zero-valent state, is simple to prepare from sustainable materials and is effective for electrocatalytic reduction of nitrate or nitrogen-containing compounds in water.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoning Liu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, No. 38, Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Yicong Wang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, No. 38, Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Richard L Smith
- Graduate School of Environmental Studies, Tohoku University, Aramaki Aza Aoba 6-6-11, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8579, Japan
| | - Le Liu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, No. 38, Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China; National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biomass Resource Utilization, Nankai University, No. 38, Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Xinhua Qi
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, No. 38, Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China; National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biomass Resource Utilization, Nankai University, No. 38, Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, China.
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He L, Yao F, Zhong Y, Tan C, Hou K, Pi Z, Chen S, Li X, Yang Q. Achieving high-performance electrocatalytic reduction of nitrate by N-rich carbon-encapsulated Ni-Cu bimetallic nanoparticles supported nickel foam electrode. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 436:129253. [PMID: 35739771 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.129253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The cathode with low-energy consumption and long-term stability is pivotal to achieve the conversion of nitrate (NO3-) to nitrogen (N2) by electrocatalytic denitrification. Herein, a binder-free electrode was synthesized by directly immobilizing N-doped graphitized carbon layer-encapsulated NiCu bimetallic nanoparticles on nickel foam (NF) (NiCu@N-C/NF) and served as the cathode for electrocatalytic NO3- reduction. Morphological characterization indicated that Ni and Cu nanoparticles were encapsulated by the N-doped graphitized carbon layer and well-dispersed on the surface of NF. Compared with monometallic composite cathode (Cu@N-C/NF and Ni@N-C/NF), NiCu@N-C/NF exhibited better NO3- removal performance (98.63 %) and lower energy consumption (0.007 kW·h mmol-1), which should be attributed to its strong adsorption ability to NO3- and excellent electron transfer property. Meanwhile, its electrocatalytic performance could be maintained in wide initial NO3- concentration (1.79-7.14 mM) and solution pH (3-11). With the assistance of electrochlorination, the N2 selectivity of electrochemical system was up to 99.89 % in the presence of 0.028 M Cl-. More importantly, NiCu@N-C/NF electrode displayed an ultra-high stability during ten recycling experiments. This study indicated that the binderless composite cathode NiCu@N-C/NF had great potential in electrocatalytic NO3- removal from wastewater.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li He
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, PR China.
| | - Fubing Yao
- School of Metallurgy and Environment, Central South University, Changsha 410083, PR China; Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Control and Treatment of Heavy Metal Pollution, Changsha 410083, PR China.
| | - Yu Zhong
- Key Laboratory of Water Pollution Control Technology, Hunan Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Changsha 410004, PR China
| | - Chang Tan
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Kunjie Hou
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Zhoujie Pi
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Shengjie Chen
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Xiaoming Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, PR China
| | - Qi Yang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, PR China.
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Wu R, Zhai X, Dai K, Lian J, Cheng L, Wang G, Li J, Yang C, Yin Z, Li H, Yang X. Synthesis of acidified magnetic sludge-biochar and its role in ammonium nitrogen removal: Perception on effect and mechanism. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 832:154780. [PMID: 35390384 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.154780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 03/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
An acidified magnetic sludge-biochar (MSB) was prepared to enhance ammonium nitrogen (AN) removal efficiency in eutrophic water, and MSB was obtained by secondary pyrolysis of sludge biochar powder. A series of MSB were prepared under 300, 400, 500, 600 °C and different valence states of iron ions by impregnation pyrolysis, which is based on the deposition of unstable iron minerals on biochar matrix. Physicochemical properties of pristine biochar and MSB were revealed through characterization analysis, suggesting that MSB prepared by ferric chloride at 400 °C presented the largest adsorption capacity, and the acid-modification enhanced the ammonium adsorption capacity by 10.7%. Electrostatic attraction and ion-exchange processes were identified as the main adsorption mechanisms of MSB on AN. As the most dominant mechanism, ion exchange of AN with functional groups containing -OH and CO on the surface of MSB resulted in the relative content of -OH (61.3%) and CO (11.5%) bonds reduced to 34.2% and 7.0% respectively. The novel magnetic sludge-biochar with acid-modification possessed enhanced electron transfer capacity, revealing a removal pathway of ammonium by nitrification. The findings above demonstrated that MSB is a promising adsorbent for ammonium removal and can be applied to the natural nitrogen-rich water regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruofan Wu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Ecological Health, College of Environmental and Resources Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xu Zhai
- MOE Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Ecological Health, College of Environmental and Resources Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Kuai Dai
- Yunnan Tobacco Company Yuxi Branch, Yuxi, Yunnan 653100, China
| | - Jiapan Lian
- MOE Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Ecological Health, College of Environmental and Resources Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Liping Cheng
- MOE Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Ecological Health, College of Environmental and Resources Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Gang Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Ecological Health, College of Environmental and Resources Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiangzhou Li
- Yunnan Tobacco Company Yuxi Branch, Yuxi, Yunnan 653100, China
| | - Chuan Yang
- Yunnan Tobacco Company Yuxi Branch, Yuxi, Yunnan 653100, China
| | - Zhicheng Yin
- Yunnan Tobacco Company Yuxi Branch, Yuxi, Yunnan 653100, China
| | - Hongjuan Li
- Yunnan Tobacco Company Yuxi Branch, Yuxi, Yunnan 653100, China
| | - Xiaoe Yang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Ecological Health, College of Environmental and Resources Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
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Yang WJ, Yang LH, Peng HJ, Lv SH, Muhammad Adeel Sharif H, Sun W, Li W, Yang C, Lin H. Perovskite oxide LaMO3-δ (M = Fe, Co, Ni and Cu) cathode for efficient electroreduction of nitrate. Sep Purif Technol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seppur.2022.121278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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Shi J, Gao Y, Liu D, Shen Z, Fan J, Yu Y, Bao M, Li P, Yao R. Preparing porous Cu/Pd electrode on nickel foam using hydrogen bubbles dynamic template for high-efficiency and high-stability removal of nitrate from water. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:57629-57643. [PMID: 35355186 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-19942-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Electrochemical reduction is a promising technology to remove nitrate from water. The metallic composition and geometry of electrodes usually dominate the nitrate removal property. Based on nickel foam (NF), we prepared Cu/Pd bimetallic electrode using hydrogen bubbles dynamic template according to a two-step electrodeposition method (Pd after Cu). The micromorphology, crystal structure, and metallic composition were analyzed by using the field emission scanning electron microscope with energy dispersive spectroscopy (FESEM-EDS), powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) instruments, respectively. 4.4 mg of Cu and 1.4 mg of Pd were detected on the prepared Cu/Pd electrode. The micromorphology of prepared Cu/Pd electrode showed a grape-bunch look with porous structure of two stage sizes (100-500 nm and 200-300 μm). 98% of the initial NO3--N (100 mg/L) was removed under the potential of - 1.6 V vs. Ag/AgCl saturated KCl after 24 h of reaction when using 0.05 mol/L of Na2SO4 or NaCl as electrolyte. But the concentration of produced NH4+-N was higher than 80 mg/L when using Na2SO4 as electrolyte, which was close to 0 mg/L when using NaCl as electrolyte. The cyclic voltammetry curves of 1000 cycles and the long-term continuous flow test of about 200 h suggested that the prepared Cu/Pd electrode showed high stability for nitrate removal from water.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jialu Shi
- Key Laboratory for Yellow River and Huai River Water Environment and Pollution Control, Ministry of Education, Henan Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Control, School of Environment, Henan Normal University, NO. 64 Jianshe Road, Xinxiang, 453007, People's Republic of China
| | - Ya Gao
- Key Laboratory for Yellow River and Huai River Water Environment and Pollution Control, Ministry of Education, Henan Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Control, School of Environment, Henan Normal University, NO. 64 Jianshe Road, Xinxiang, 453007, People's Republic of China
| | - Daoru Liu
- Key Laboratory for Yellow River and Huai River Water Environment and Pollution Control, Ministry of Education, Henan Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Control, School of Environment, Henan Normal University, NO. 64 Jianshe Road, Xinxiang, 453007, People's Republic of China
- School of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhanhui Shen
- Key Laboratory for Yellow River and Huai River Water Environment and Pollution Control, Ministry of Education, Henan Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Control, School of Environment, Henan Normal University, NO. 64 Jianshe Road, Xinxiang, 453007, People's Republic of China.
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, 163 Xianlin Avenue, Nanjing, 210046, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jing Fan
- Key Laboratory for Yellow River and Huai River Water Environment and Pollution Control, Ministry of Education, Henan Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Control, School of Environment, Henan Normal University, NO. 64 Jianshe Road, Xinxiang, 453007, People's Republic of China
| | - Yating Yu
- Key Laboratory for Yellow River and Huai River Water Environment and Pollution Control, Ministry of Education, Henan Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Control, School of Environment, Henan Normal University, NO. 64 Jianshe Road, Xinxiang, 453007, People's Republic of China
| | - Meihui Bao
- Key Laboratory for Yellow River and Huai River Water Environment and Pollution Control, Ministry of Education, Henan Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Control, School of Environment, Henan Normal University, NO. 64 Jianshe Road, Xinxiang, 453007, People's Republic of China
| | - Panpan Li
- Key Laboratory for Yellow River and Huai River Water Environment and Pollution Control, Ministry of Education, Henan Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Control, School of Environment, Henan Normal University, NO. 64 Jianshe Road, Xinxiang, 453007, People's Republic of China
| | - Rui Yao
- Key Laboratory for Yellow River and Huai River Water Environment and Pollution Control, Ministry of Education, Henan Key Laboratory for Environmental Pollution Control, School of Environment, Henan Normal University, NO. 64 Jianshe Road, Xinxiang, 453007, People's Republic of China
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Hong M, Wang Q, Sun J, Wu C. A highly active copper-nanoparticle-based nitrate reduction electrocatalyst prepared by in situ electrodeposition and annealing. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 827:154349. [PMID: 35257778 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.154349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, copper-based electrodes have attracted intense attention for the electrochemical reduction of nitrate (NO3-), the so-called ECRN. However, these electrodes suffer from low activity and selectivity. Herein, we report a novel Cu-based electrode (IE-Cu-400) for the ECRN fabricated by loading Cu-based nanoparticles onto graphite felt using in situ electrodeposition followed by annealing. Compared with traditional Cu-based electrodes, the IE-Cu-400 is comprised of smaller particles and the copper is present in a high oxidation state (Cu2+ in CuO). During operation, the CuO is converted to Cu, which is the active ECRN species. In addition, an increased surface area and high density of grain boundaries resulting from the reduction of CuO were observed for IE-Cu-400. This resulted in a 3.38-fold increase in the NO3- removal rate and a 1.36-fold increase in NH4+ selectivity. Further analyses revealed that the enhanced ECRN performance of IE-Cu-400 is linked to its increased number of active sites, as well as its improved adsorption and reduction ability for NO2-. Moreover, IE-Cu-400 displays high stability for the ECRN. Finally, the produced NH4+ was effectively oxidised to N2 with approximately 100% selectivity via chlorination. Hence, the two-stage treatment strategy (i.e. ECRN by IE-Cu-400 + chlorination treatment) presented here shows great potential for the complete electrocatalytic denitrification of water. Further, this work highlights the beneficial effect of decreasing the particle size and controlling the surface oxidation of Cu-based catalysts simultaneously for enhancing the ECRN and offers new suggestions for the design of high-performance electrode materials for the ECRN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Hong
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Anhui University, Hefei, Anhui 230601, China
| | - Qinian Wang
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Anhui University, Hefei, Anhui 230601, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecosystem Protection and Restoration, Anhui University, Hefei, Anhui 230601, China.
| | - Jun Sun
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Anhui University, Hefei, Anhui 230601, China
| | - Chao Wu
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Anhui University, Hefei, Anhui 230601, China
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Wang C, Cao Z, Huang H, Liu H, Wang S. Electrocatalytic Reduction of Nitrate via Co3O4/Ti Cathode Prepared by Electrodeposition Paired With IrO2-RuO2 Anode. Front Chem 2022; 10:900962. [PMID: 35720989 PMCID: PMC9203690 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2022.900962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Nitrate pollution is already a global problem, and the electrocatalytic reduction of nitrate is a promising technology for the remediation of wastewater and polluted water bodies. In this work, Co3O4/Ti electrodes were prepared by electrodeposition for the electrocatalytic reduction of nitrate. The morphology, chemical, and crystal structures of Co3O4/Ti and its catalytic activity were investigated. Then, the electrocatalytic nitrate reduction performance of Co3O4/Ti as the cathode was evaluated by monitoring the removal efficiencies of nitrate (NO3−-N) and total nitrogen (TN), generation of reduction products, current efficiency (CE), and energy consumption (EC) at different operating conditions. Under the catalysis of Co3O4/Ti, NO3− was reduced to N2 and NH4+, while no NO2− was produced. After the introduction of chloride ions and IrO2-RuO2/Ti as the anode, NH4+ was selectively oxidized to N2. The removal efficiencies of NO3−-N (at 100 mg/L) and TN after 2 h were 91.12% and 60.25%, respectively (pH 7.0; Cl− concentration, 2000 mg/L; current density, 15 mA/cm2). After 4 h of operation, NO3−-N and TN were completely removed. However, considering the EC and CE, a 2-h reaction was the most appropriate. The EC and CE were 0.10 kWh/g NO3−N and 40.3%, respectively, and electrocatalytic performance was maintained after 10 consecutive reduction cycles (2 h each). The cathode Co3O4/Ti, which is prepared by electrodeposition, can effectively remove NO3−-N, with low EC and high CE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuan Wang
- Key Laboratory for Water Quality and Conservation of the Pearl River Delta, Ministry of Education, Institute of Environmental Research at Greater Bay, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhifen Cao
- Key Laboratory for Water Quality and Conservation of the Pearl River Delta, Ministry of Education, Institute of Environmental Research at Greater Bay, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hongtao Huang
- Key Laboratory for Water Quality and Conservation of the Pearl River Delta, Ministry of Education, Institute of Environmental Research at Greater Bay, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hong Liu
- Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing, China
| | - Sha Wang
- Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chongqing, China
- *Correspondence: Sha Wang,
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32
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Li F, Zhang P, Gong A, Zhang X, Zhang W, Li K. Cu particles confined in three-dimensional open porous carbon foam monolith as highly efficient electrode for electroreduction of nitrate with significant alleviation of nitrite. Sep Purif Technol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seppur.2022.120721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Liu Y, Deng B, Li K, Wang H, Sun Y, Dong F. Metal-organic framework derived carbon-supported bimetallic copper-nickel alloy electrocatalysts for highly selective nitrate reduction to ammonia. J Colloid Interface Sci 2022; 614:405-414. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2022.01.127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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34
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Hong X, Du Y, Zhang H, Xue W, San Hui K, Fang G. Electrochemical nitrate removal by magnetically immobilized nZVI anode on ammonia-oxidizing plate of RuO 2-IrO 2/Ti. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 294:133806. [PMID: 35120957 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.133806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Ammonium as the major reduction intermediate has always been the limitation of nitrate reduction by cathodic reduction or nano zero-valent iron (nZVI). In this work, we report the electrochemical nitrate removal by magnetically immobilized nZVI anode on RuO2-IrO2/Ti plate with ammonia-oxidizing function. This system shows maximum nitrate removal efficiency of 94.6% and nitrogen selectivity up to 72.8% at pH of 3.0, and it has also high nitrate removal efficiency (90.2%) and nitrogen selectivity (70.6%) near neutral medium (pH = 6). As the increase of the applied anodic potentials, both nitrate removal efficiency (from 27.2% to 94.6%) and nitrogen selectivity (70.4%-72.8%) increase. The incorpration of RuO2-IrO2/Ti plate with ammonia-oxidizing function on the nZVI anode enhances the nitrate reduction. The dosage of nZVI on RuO2-IrO2/Ti plate (from 0.2 g to 0.6 g) has a slight effect (the variance is no more than 10.0%) on the removal performance. Cyclic voltammetry, Tafel analysis and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) were further used to investigate the reaction mechanisms occurring on the nZVI surfaces in terms of CV curve area, corrosion voltage, corrosion current density and charge-transfer resistance. In conclusion, high nitrate removal performance of magnetically immobilized nZVI anode coupled with RuO2-IrO2/Ti plate may guide the design of improved electrochemical reduction by nZVI-based anode for practical nitrate remediation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoting Hong
- Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang Sci-tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, PR China.
| | - Yingying Du
- Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang Sci-tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, PR China
| | - Haibin Zhang
- Zhejiang Ruicheng New Materials Co., Ltd, Wenzhou, 325401, PR China
| | - Wenjuan Xue
- Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang Sci-tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, PR China
| | - Kwan San Hui
- Engineering, Faculty of Science, University of East Anglia, Norwich, NR4 7TJ, United Kingdom
| | - Gangming Fang
- Hangzhou Chuan En Environmental Technology Co., LTD, Hangzhou, 311508, PR China
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Abstract
Nitrate is a widespread water contaminant that can pose environmental and health risks. Various conventional techniques can be applied for the removal of nitrate from water and wastewater, such as biological denitrification, ion exchange, nanofiltration, and reverse osmosis. Compared to traditional methods, the chemical denitrification through zero-valent metals offers various advantages, such as lower costs, simplicity of management, and high efficiencies. The most utilized material for chemical denitrification is zero-valent iron (ZVI). Aluminium (ZVA), magnesium (ZVM), copper (ZVC), and zinc (ZVZ) are alternative zero-valent metals that are studied for the removal of nitrate from water as well as from aqueous solutions. To the best of our knowledge, a comprehensive work on the use of the various zero-valent materials that are employed for the removal of nitrate is still missing. Therefore, in the present review, the most recent papers concerning the use of zero-valent materials for chemical denitrification were analysed. The studies that dealt with zero-valent iron were discussed by considering microscopic (mZVI) and nanoscopic (nZVI) forms. For each Fe0 form, the effects of the initial pH, the presence or absence of dissolved oxygen, the initial nitrate concentration, the temperature, and the dissolved ions on the nitrate removal process were separately evaluated. Finally, the different materials that were employed as support for the nanoparticles were examined. For the other zero-valent metals tested, a detailed description of the works present in the literature was carried out. A comparison of the various features that are related to each considered material was also made.
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Chen X, Teng W, Fan J, Chen Y, Ma Q, Xue Y, Zhang C, Zhang WX. Enhanced degradation of micropollutants over iron-based electro-Fenton catalyst: Cobalt as an electron modulator in mesochannels and mechanism insight. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 427:127896. [PMID: 34862103 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.127896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Heterogeneous electro-Fenton (hetero-EF) process is an emerging alternative for effective oxidation of recalcitrant micropollutants, but it is hampered by limited hydroxyl radical (•OH) generation and low stability on the iron-based cathodes. Herein, we demonstrate an enhanced hetero-EF performance via modulation of iron electronic structure in an ordered mesoporous carbon (OMC). By tuning the cobalt incorporation, the highly-dispersed iron-cobalt (FeCo) nanoalloys in mesochannels (Fe0.5Co0.5@OMC) show a 3-fold increase in •OH yield compared with Fe@OMC, achieving degradation efficiency with 92% of sulfamethazine (SMT) and 99% of rhodamine B (RhB), and the corresponding total organic carbon (TOC) removal with 66% of SMT and 85% of RhB within 2 h in neutral pH, respectively. Experimental results and density functional theory (DFT) calculations demonstrate that iron incorporated with cobalt reduces energy barrier for facile generation of H2O2 and •OH from O2 through direct electron transfer, along with decreased overpotential. Meanwhile, cobalt doping promotes H2O2 decomposition by accelerated Fe(II)/Fe(III) cycle and Co(II)/Co(III) redox. Furthermore, spatially confined and half-embedded structure endows the nanocatalyst (8 nm) excellent durability within a wide pH value range and good stability in cycle tests. A plausible reaction mechanism and degradation pathway for SMT are proposed. Moreover, the superiority of Fe0.5Co0.5@OMC cathode is maintained in simulated wastewater, suggesting an enormous potential in practical wastewater treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqian Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, PR China
| | - Wei Teng
- State Key Laboratory for Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, PR China.
| | - Jianwei Fan
- State Key Laboratory for Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, PR China
| | - Yanyan Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, PR China
| | - Qian Ma
- State Key Laboratory for Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, PR China
| | - Yinghao Xue
- State Key Laboratory for Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, PR China
| | - Chuning Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, PR China
| | - Wei-Xian Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, PR China
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Yu CL, Chen HY, Lo NC, Lee CL, Chen PY. Enhanced Catalytic Activity of Copper Nanoparticles Electrochemically Co-deposited with Cadmium towards the Electroreduction of Nitrate. J Electroanal Chem (Lausanne) 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jelechem.2022.116325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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38
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Xu H, Ma Y, Chen J, Zhang WX, Yang J. Electrocatalytic reduction of nitrate - a step towards a sustainable nitrogen cycle. Chem Soc Rev 2022; 51:2710-2758. [PMID: 35274646 DOI: 10.1039/d1cs00857a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 69.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Nitrate enrichment, which is mainly caused by the over-utilization of fertilisers and industrial sewage discharge, is a major global engineering challenge because of its negative influence on the environment and human health. To solve this serious problem, many technologies, such as the activated sludge method, reverse osmosis, ion exchange, adsorption, and electrodialysis, have been developed to reduce the nitrate levels in water bodies. However, the applications of these traditional techniques are limited by several drawbacks, such as a long sludge retention time, slow kinetics, and undesirable by-products. From an environmental perspective, the most promising nitrate reduction technology is enabled to convert nitrate into benign N2, and features low cost, high efficiency, and environmental friendliness. Recently, electrocatalytic nitrate reduction has been proven by satisfactory research achievements to be one of the most promising methods among these technologies. This review provides a comprehensive account of nitrate reduction using electrocatalysis methods. The fundamentals of electrocatalytic nitrate reduction, including the reaction mechanisms, reactor design principles, product detection methods, and performance evaluation methods, have been systematically summarised. A detailed introduction to electrocatalytic nitrate reduction on transition metals, especially noble metals and alloys, Cu-based electrocatalysts, and Fe-based electrocatalysts is provided, as they are essential for the accurate reporting of experimental results. The current challenges and potential opportunities in this field, including the innovation of material design systems, value-added product yields, and challenges for products beyond N2 and large-scale sewage treatment, are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Xu
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China.
| | - Yuanyuan Ma
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China.
| | - Jun Chen
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Electromaterials Science, Intelligent Polymer Research Institute, Australian Institute of Innovative Materials, Innovation Campus, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia.
| | - Wei-Xian Zhang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resources Reuse, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Jianping Yang
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China.
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39
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Enhanced nitrate removal and nitrogen-selective conversion mechanism of a combined sponge iron/biochar/manganese sand system. Chem Eng Res Des 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cherd.2022.03.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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40
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Wang H, Zhuang M, Shan L, Wu J, Quan G, Cui L, Zhang Y, Yan J. Bimetallic FeNi nanoparticles immobilized by biomass-derived hierarchically porous carbon for efficient removal of Cr(VI) from aqueous solution. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 423:127098. [PMID: 34523485 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.127098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/29/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Nano zero-valent iron (nZVI) is an effective material for Cr(VI) treatment, however excessive agglomeration and surface oxidation limit its application. Herein, straw derived hierarchically porous carbon supported FeNi bimetallic nanoparticles (FeNi@HPC) was prepared for effective removal of Cr(VI) from water. FeNi nanoparticles were successfully loaded onto HPC with good dispersibility, and HPC caused an increase in specific surface area of FeNi nanoparticles. FeNi@HPC exhibited a significantly enhanced removal efficiency for Cr(VI) in comparison to Fe@HPC and FeNi NPs. The Ni doping content was further optimized, and the best Ni content in bimetallic NPs was estimated as 10 wt%. The conditions optimal for the activity of FeNi@HPC were assessed, and the highest removal efficiency equivalent to 30 mg L-1 of Cr(VI) was achieved at pH= 4.0 in 360 min with a dosage of 0.5 g L-1. Higher temperatures favored the removal of Cr(VI) and FeNi@HPC manifested the lowest activation energy as compared to Fe@HPC and FeNi NPs. The action mechanisms of FeNi@HPC presumably involved electron transfer from Fe0, Fe2+and atomic hydrogen. This work not only provide a cost-effective and available HPC material to stabilize nZVI but also revealed that using FeNi@HPC is a promising approach for the remediation of water pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Wang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng 224051, PR China; Yancheng Environmental Engineering Technology Research and Development Center, School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Yancheng 224051, PR China
| | - Min Zhuang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng 224051, PR China
| | - Liang Shan
- Yancheng Environmental Engineering Technology Research and Development Center, School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Yancheng 224051, PR China
| | - Jie Wu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng 224051, PR China
| | - Guixiang Quan
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng 224051, PR China
| | - Liqiang Cui
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng 224051, PR China
| | - Yonghao Zhang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng 224051, PR China
| | - Jinlong Yan
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng 224051, PR China.
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41
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Zhou Y, Li X. Green synthesis of modified polyethylene packing supported tea polyphenols-NZVI for nitrate removal from wastewater: Characterization and mechanisms. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 806:150596. [PMID: 34592281 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.150596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2021] [Revised: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Nano-zero-valent iron (NZVI), as an electron donor, performed excellence in the reduction and remove of nitrate. However, the easy agglomeration and poor antioxidation of NZVI declined the nitrate removal and limited the application in the field of wastewater treatment. Herein, a novel composite packing of tea polyphenol, NZVI and modified polyethylene carrier (TP-NZVI/PE) was prepared and characterized, the removal efficiency of nitrate was verified, and the preliminary removal mechanism was finally investigated. The results showed that the maximum iron loading on TP-NZVI/PE composite achieved under 50 °C, pH of 5.0, 4.0 g/L of Fe2+, and 7.2 g/L of TP, respectively, with 3.51 ± 0.12 mg/g. NZVI presented satisfactory antioxidation and anti-agglomeration via TP encapsulation. TP encapsulation of TP-NZVI/PE composite was easily degraded by microorganisms and NZVI was exposed to nitrate during wastewater treatment, which made the reduction of nitrate possible. The nitrate removal efficiency of TP-NZVI/PE composite with microorganism was 79.88 ± 0.17%, higher three times than that of TP-NZVI/PE (25.54 ± 0.21%). The oxidized NZVI was transformed to Fe2+/Fe3+, which were prone to adsorb nitrate and then co-precipitate. It was favorable for further removal of nitrate. Results suggested a novel approach for fast and eco-friendly preparation and efficient application of NZVI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhou
- Laboratory of Environmental Biotechnology, School of Environmental and Civil Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, PR China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Anaerobic Biotechnology, Wuxi 214122, PR China; Jiangsu Cooperative Innovation Center of Technology and Material of Water Treatment, Suzhou 215009, PR China
| | - Xiufen Li
- Laboratory of Environmental Biotechnology, School of Environmental and Civil Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, PR China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Anaerobic Biotechnology, Wuxi 214122, PR China; Jiangsu Cooperative Innovation Center of Technology and Material of Water Treatment, Suzhou 215009, PR China.
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42
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High-ammonia selective metal–organic framework–derived Co-doped Fe/Fe2O3 catalysts for electrochemical nitrate reduction. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:2115504119. [PMID: 35101982 PMCID: PMC8833204 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2115504119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Electrochemical reduction of nitrate pollution in water into value-added ammonium is essential for modern agriculture and industry and represents a potentially sustainable strategy to replace the traditional Haber–Bosch process. However, the nitrate reduction reaction (NO3−RR) process under ambient conditions often suffers from low selectivity. Here, we developed a strategy of tuning an electronic structure for preparing cobalt-doped Fe@Fe2O3 electrocatalysts. Cobalt doping tunes the Fe d-band center, thereby modulating the adsorption energies of intermediates and suppressing hydrogen production. Therefore, the electrocatalysts exhibit superior NO3−RR activity with a high nitrate removal capacity (100.8 mg N gcat−1 h−1), NH3 selectivity (99.0 ± 0.1%), and faradaic efficiency (85.2 ± 0.6%). This strategy provides an approach to design advanced materials for NO3−RR. Ammonia (NH3) is an ideal carbon-free power source in the future sustainable hydrogen economy for growing energy demand. The electrochemical nitrate reduction reaction (NO3−RR) is a promising approach for nitrate removal and NH3 production at ambient conditions, but efficient electrocatalysts are lacking. Here, we present a metal–organic framework (MOF)–derived cobalt-doped Fe@Fe2O3 (Co-Fe@Fe2O3) NO3−RR catalyst for electrochemical energy production. This catalyst has a nitrate removal capacity of 100.8 mg N gcat−1 h−1 and an ammonium selectivity of 99.0 ± 0.1%, which was the highest among all reported research. In addition, NH3 was produced at a rate of 1,505.9 μg h−1 cm−2, and the maximum faradaic efficiency was 85.2 ± 0.6%. Experimental and computational results reveal that the high performance of Co-Fe@Fe2O3 results from cobalt doping, which tunes the Fe d-band center, enabling the adsorption energies for intermediates to be modulated and suppressing hydrogen production. Thus, this study provides a strategy in the design of electrocatalysts in electrochemical nitrate reduction.
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43
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Beagan DM, Cabelof AC. Recent advances in metal-mediated nitrogen oxyanion reduction using reductively borylated and silylated N-heterocycles. Dalton Trans 2022; 51:2203-2213. [PMID: 35044399 DOI: 10.1039/d1dt03740d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The reduction of nitrogen oxyanions is critical for the remediation of eutrophication caused by anthropogenic perturbations to the natural nitrogen cycle. There are many approaches to nitrogen oxyanion reduction, and here we report our advances in reductive deoxygenation using pre-reduced N-heterocycles. We show examples of nitrogen oxyanion reduction using Cr, Fe, Co, Ni, and Zn, and we evaluate the role of metal choice, number of coordinated oxyanions, and ancillary ligands on the reductive transformations. We report the experimental challenges faced and provide an outlook on new directions to repurpose nitrogen oxyanions into value-added products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel M Beagan
- Department of Chemistry, Indiana University Bloomington, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
| | - Alyssa C Cabelof
- Department of Chemistry, Indiana University Bloomington, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
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44
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Fang L, Wang S, Song C, Yang X, Li Y, Liu H. Enhanced nitrate reduction reaction via efficient intermediate nitrite conversion on tunable Cu xNi y/NC electrocatalysts. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 421:126628. [PMID: 34343879 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.126628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Electroreduction of nitrate (NO3-) to value-added ammonia (NH3) provides an alternative to NH3 production industry and remediation of NO3--containing wastewater. This study reports a series of Cu-Ni catalysts with component-controllable CuxNiy nanoparticles encapsulated in N-doped carbon film (CuxNiy/NC), and disclosure of the associated mechanism for NO3- reduction reaction (NO3-RR). Cu0.43Ni0.57/NC achieves a better NO3--N removal proportion of 89% in comparison with the reference catalysts, including Cu/NC (73%) and CuxNiy/NC with other compositions (Cu0.79Ni0.21/NC, 83%; Cu0.26Ni0.74/NC, 62%; Ni/NC, 20%). The experimental results and density functional theory calculations demonstrate that the lowered energy barriers of *NO2-to-*NO derived from appropriate Ni atom alloying plays a key role in the enhanced catalytic activity. Auxiliary porous substrate further contributes to the exposure of active sites and the durability of catalyst structure. These findings offer a mechanistic understanding of catalyst structure on the NO3-RR activity and valuable insights toward rational design of other catalysts for enhanced NO3-RR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Fang
- Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 266, Fangzheng Avenue, Beibei District, Chongqing 400714, China; Chongqing School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 266, Fangzheng Avenue, Beibei District, Chongqing 400714, China
| | - Sha Wang
- Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 266, Fangzheng Avenue, Beibei District, Chongqing 400714, China; Chongqing School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 266, Fangzheng Avenue, Beibei District, Chongqing 400714, China
| | - Cheng Song
- Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 266, Fangzheng Avenue, Beibei District, Chongqing 400714, China; Chongqing School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 266, Fangzheng Avenue, Beibei District, Chongqing 400714, China
| | - Xiaohui Yang
- Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 266, Fangzheng Avenue, Beibei District, Chongqing 400714, China; Chongqing School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 266, Fangzheng Avenue, Beibei District, Chongqing 400714, China
| | - Yuke Li
- Department of Chemistry and Centre for Scientific Modeling and Computation, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hong Liu
- Chongqing Institute of Green and Intelligent Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 266, Fangzheng Avenue, Beibei District, Chongqing 400714, China; Chongqing School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 266, Fangzheng Avenue, Beibei District, Chongqing 400714, China.
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45
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Xu B, Chen Z, Zhang G, Wang Y. On-Demand Atomic Hydrogen Provision by Exposing Electron-Rich Cobalt Sites in an Open-Framework Structure toward Superior Electrocatalytic Nitrate Conversion to Dinitrogen. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2022; 56:614-623. [PMID: 34914357 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.1c06091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Electrocatalytic nitrate (NO3-) reduction to N2 via atomic hydrogen (H*) is a promising approach for advanced water treatment. However, the reduction rate and N2 selectivity are hindered by slow mass transfer and H* provision-utilization mismatch, respectively. Herein, we report an open-framework cathode bearing electron-rich Co sites with extraordinary H* provision performance, which was validated by electron spin resonance (ESR) and cyclic voltammetry (CV) tests. Benefiting from its abundant channels, NO3- has a greater opportunity to be efficiently transferred to the vicinity of the Co active sites. Owing to the enhanced mass transfer and on-demand H* provision, the nitrate removal efficiency and N2 selectivity of the proposed cathode were 100 and 97.89%, respectively, superior to those of noble metal-based electrodes. In addition, in situ differential electrochemical mass spectrometry (DEMS) indicated that ultrafast *NO2- to *NO reduction and highly selective *NO to *N2O or *N transformation played crucial roles during the NO3- reduction process. Moreover, the proposed electrochemical system can achieve remarkable N2 selectivity without the additional Cl- supply, thus avoiding the formation of chlorinated byproducts, which are usually observed in conventional electrochemical nitrate reduction processes. Environmentally, energy conservation and negligible byproduct release ensure its practicability for use in nitrate remediation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bincheng Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resources Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Zhixuan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resources Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Gong Zhang
- Center for Water and Ecology, State Key Joint Laboratory of Environment Simulation and Pollution Control, School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Ying Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resources Reuse, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, China
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46
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Ma J, Wei W, Qin G, Xiao T, Tang W, Zhao S, Jiang L, Liu S. Electrochemical reduction of nitrate in a catalytic carbon membrane nano-reactor. WATER RESEARCH 2022; 208:117862. [PMID: 34814021 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2021.117862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Nitrate pollution is a critical environmental issue in need of urgent addressing. Electrochemical reduction is an attractive strategy for treating nitrate due to the environmental friendliness. However, it is still a challenge to achieve the simultaneous high activity and selectivity. Here we report the design of a porous tubular carbon membrane as the electrode deposited with catalysts, which provides a large triple-phase boundary area for nitrate removal reactions. The achieved nitrate removal rate is one order of magnitude higher than other literatures with high nitrate conversion and high selectivity of nitrogen. The carbon membrane itself had a limited catalytic property thus Cu-Pd bimetal catalysts were deposited inside the nano-pores to enhance the activity and selectivity. When Na2SO4 electrolyte was applied, the achieved single-pass removal of nitrate was increased from 55.15% (for blank membrane) to 97.12% by adding catalysts inside the membrane. In case of NaOH as the electrolyte, the single-pass nitrate removal efficiency, selectivity to nitrogen formation and nitrate removal rate was 90.66%, 96.40% and 1.47 × 10-3 mmol min-1 cm-2, respectively. Density functional theory studies demonstrate that the loading of bimetal catalysts compared with single metal catalysts enhances the adsorption of *NO3 on membrane surface favorable for N2 formation than NH3 on Cu-Pd surface. The application of catalytic carbon membrane nano-reactors can open new windows for nitrate removal due to the high reactor efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Ma
- School of Space and Environment, Beihang University, Shahe Campus, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Wei Wei
- College of Biochemical Engineering, Beijing Union University, 18 Sanqu Fatouxili, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100023, China
| | - Guotong Qin
- School of Space and Environment, Beihang University, Shahe Campus, Beijing 102206, China.
| | - Tianliang Xiao
- School of Energy and Power Engineering, Beihang University, Shahe Campus, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Weiqiang Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering and School of Chemical Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Shuangliang Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering and School of Chemical Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Petrochemical Resource Processing and Process Intensification Technology, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Lei Jiang
- School of Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Bio-Inspired Smart Interfacial Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, Beihang University, 37 Xueyuan Road, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Shaomin Liu
- College of Chemical Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China
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47
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Su Y, Muller KR, Yoshihara-Saint H, Najm I, Jassby D. Nitrate Removal in an Electrically Charged Granular-Activated Carbon Column. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2021; 55:16597-16606. [PMID: 34874719 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.1c02152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Nitrate removal from groundwater remains a challenge. Here, we report on the development of a flow-through, electrically charged, granular-activated carbon (GAC)-filled column, which effectively removes nitrate. In this system, the GAC functioned as an anode, while a titanium sheet acted as a cathode. The high removal rate of nitrate was achieved through a combination of electrosorption and electrochemical transformation to N2. The column could be readily regenerated in situ by reversing the polarity of the applied potential. We demonstrate that in the presence of chloride, the mechanism responsible for the observed nitrate removal involves a combination of electroadsorption of nitrate to the anodically charged GAC, electroreduction of nitrate to ammonium, and the oxidation of ammonium to N2 gas by reactive chlorine and other oxidative radicals (with nearly 100% N2 selectivity). Given the ubiquitous presence of chloride in groundwater, this method represents a ready, green, and sustainable treatment process with significant potential for the remediation of contaminated groundwater.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiming Su
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Katherine R Muller
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Riverside, California 92521, United States
| | - Hira Yoshihara-Saint
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Riverside, California 92521, United States
| | - Issam Najm
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - David Jassby
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
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48
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Fu J, Yao F, Xie T, Zhong Y, Tao Z, Chen S, He L, Pi Z, Hou K, Wang D, Li X, Yang Q. In-situ growth of needle-like Co3O4 on cobalt foam as a self-supported cathode for electrochemical reduction of nitrate. Sep Purif Technol 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seppur.2021.119329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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49
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Baye AF, Han DH, Kassahun SK, Appiah-Ntiamoah R, Kim H. Improving the reduction and sensing capability of Fe3O4 towards 4-nitrophenol by coupling with ZnO/Fe0/Fe3C/graphitic carbon using ZnFe-LDH@carbon as a template. Electrochim Acta 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2021.139343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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50
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Wang P, Fu F, Liu T. A review of the new multifunctional nano zero-valent iron composites for wastewater treatment: Emergence, preparation, optimization and mechanism. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 285:131435. [PMID: 34256206 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.131435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Nano zero-valent iron (NZVI) with high chemical reactivity and environmental friendliness had recently become one of the most efficient technologies for wastewater restoration. However, the unitary NZVI system had not met practical requirements for wastewater treatments. Expectantly, the development of NZVI would prefer multifunctional NZVI-based composites, which could be prepared and optimized by the combined methods and technologies. Consequently, a systematic and comprehensive summary from the perspective of multifunctional NZVI-composite had been conducted. The results demonstrated that the advantages of various systems were integrated by multifunctional NZVI-composite systems with a more significant performance of pollutant removal than those of the bare NZVI and its composites. Simultaneously, characteristics of the product prepared by the incorporation of numerous methods were superior to those by a simple method, resulting in the increase of the entirety efficiency. By comparison with other preparation methods, the ball milling method with higher production and field application potential was worthy of attention. After combining multiple technologies, the effect of NZVI and its composite systems could be dramatically strengthened. Preparation technology parameters and treatment effect of contaminants could be further optimized using more comprehensive experimental designs and mathematical models. The mechanism of the multifunctional NZVI system for contaminants treatment was primarily focused on adsorption, oxidation, reduction and co-precipitation. Multiple techniques were combined to enhance the dispersion, alleviating passivation, accelerating electron transfer efficiency or mass transfer action for optimizing the effect of NZVI composites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Wang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Water Resources and Environment, Tianjin Normal University, 300387, Tianjin, PR China; School of Geography and Environmental Sciences, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, 300387, Tianjin, PR China
| | - Fugang Fu
- PowerChina Guiyang Engineering Corporation Limited, 300387, Guiyang, PR China
| | - Tingyi Liu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Water Resources and Environment, Tianjin Normal University, 300387, Tianjin, PR China.
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