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Li SL, Chen Y, Tian G, Kou L, Qiao L, Zhao Y, Gan LY. High catalytic activity and abundant active sites in M 2C 12 monolayer for nitrogen reduction reaction. J Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 675:411-418. [PMID: 38976967 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2024.06.231] [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: 04/10/2024] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
Developing highly efficient single-atom catalysts (SACs) for the nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) to ammonia production has garnered significant attention in the scientific community. However, achieving high activity and selectivity remains challenging due to the lack of innate activity in most existing catalysts or insufficient active site density. This study delves into the potential of M2C12 materials (M = Cr, Ir, Mn, Mo, Os, Re, Rh, Ru, W, Fe, Cu, and Ti) with high transition metal coverage as SACs for NRR using first-principles calculations. Among these materials, Os2C12 exhibited superior catalytic activity for NRR, with a low overpotential of 0.39 V and an Os coverage of up to 72.53 wt%. To further boost its catalytic activity, a nonmetal (NM) atom doping (NM = B, N, O, and S) and C vacancy modification were explored in Os2C12. It is found that the introduction of O enables exceptional catalytic activity, selectivity, and stability, with an even lower overpotential of 0.07 V. Incorporating the O atom disrupted the charge balance of its coordinating C atoms, effectively increasing the positive charge density of the Os-d-orbit-related electronic structure. This promoted strong d-π* coupling between Os and N2H, enhancing N2H adsorption and facilitating NRR processes. This comprehensive study provides valuable insights into NRR catalyst design for sustainable ammonia production and offers a reference for exploring alternative materials in other catalytic reactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu-Long Li
- Institute for Advanced Study, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, China; School of Physics, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 611700, China; Western Superconducting Technologies Co, Ltd., Xi'an 710018, China
| | - Yutao Chen
- Institute for Advanced Study, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, China
| | - Guo Tian
- Institute for Advanced Study, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, China
| | - Liangzhi Kou
- School of Mechanical, Medical and Process Engineering, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland 4001, Australia
| | - Liang Qiao
- School of Physics, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 611700, China.
| | - Yong Zhao
- Institute for Advanced Study, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, China; College of Physics and Energy, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou 350117, China.
| | - Li-Yong Gan
- College of Physics and Center of Quantum Materials and Devices, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, China.
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2
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Zhang Y, Guo Z, Fang Y, Tang C, Meng F, Miao N, Sa B, Zhou J, Sun Z. Rational design of bimetallic MBene for efficient electrocatalytic nitrogen reduction. J Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 670:687-697. [PMID: 38788436 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2024.05.145] [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: 03/03/2024] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Electrocatalytic nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) is one of the most promising approaches to achieving green and efficient NH3 production. However, the designs of efficient NRR catalysts with high activity and selectivity still are severely hampered by inherent linear scaling relations among the adsorption energies of NRR intermediates. Herein, the properties of ten M3B4 type MBenes have been initially investigated for efficient N2 activation and reduction to NH3via first-principles calculations. We highlight that Cr3B4 MBene possesses remarkable NRR activity with a record-low limiting potential (-0.13 V). Then, this work proposes descriptor-based design principles that can effectively evaluate the catalytic activity of MBenes, which have been further employed to design bimetallic M2M'B4 MBenes. As a result, 5 promising candidates including Ti2YB4, V2YB4, V2MoB4, Nb2YB4, and Nb2CrB4 with excellent NRR performance have been extracted from 20 bimetallic MBenes. Further analysis illuminates that constructing bimetallic MBenes can selectively tune the adsorption strength of NHNH2** and NH2NH2**, and break the linear scaling relations between their adsorption energies, rendering them ideal for NRR. This work not only pioneers the application of MBenes as efficient NRR catalysts but also proposes rational design principles for boosting their catalytic performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaoyu Zhang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Boron Nitride Micro and Nano Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300130, China
| | - Zhonglu Guo
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Boron Nitride Micro and Nano Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300130, China.
| | - Yi Fang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Boron Nitride Micro and Nano Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300130, China
| | - Chengchun Tang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Boron Nitride Micro and Nano Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300130, China
| | - Fanbin Meng
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Boron Nitride Micro and Nano Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300130, China.
| | - Naihua Miao
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Baisheng Sa
- Key Laboratory of Eco-materials Advanced Technology, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, Fujian, China
| | - Jian Zhou
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Zhimei Sun
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China.
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3
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He HB, Ding XL, Wang YY, Chen Y, Wang MM, Chen JJ, Li W. Catalysts with Trimetallic Sites on Graphene-like C 2N for Electrocatalytic Nitrogen Reduction Reaction: A Theoretical Investigation. Chemphyschem 2024; 25:e202400143. [PMID: 38726743 DOI: 10.1002/cphc.202400143] [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: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Electrocatalytic nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) is a green and highly efficient way to replace the industrial Haber-Bosch process. Herein, clusters consisting of three transition metal atoms loaded on C2N as NRR electrocatalysts are investigated using density functional theory (DFT). Meanwhile, Ca was introduced as a promoter and the role of Ca in NRR was investigated. It was found that Ca anchored to the catalyst can act as an electron donor and effectively promote the activation of N2 on M3. In both M3@C2N and M3Ca@C2N (M=Fe, Co, Ni), the limiting potential (UL) is less negative than that of the Ru(0001) surface and has the ability to suppress the competitive hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Among them, Fe3@C2N is suggested to be the most promising candidate for NRR with high thermal stability, strong N2 adsorption ability, low limiting potential, and good NRR selectivity. The concepts of trimetallic sites and alkaline earth metal promoters in this work provide theoretical guidance for the rational design of atomically active sites in electrocatalytic NRR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han-Bin He
- Institute of Clusters and Low Dimensional Nanomaterials, School of Mathematics and Physics, North China Electric Power University, Beinong Road 2, Changping, Beijing, 102206, P. R. China
| | - Xun-Lei Ding
- Institute of Clusters and Low Dimensional Nanomaterials, School of Mathematics and Physics, North China Electric Power University, Beinong Road 2, Changping, Beijing, 102206, P. R. China
- School of New Energy, North China Electric Power University, Beinong Road 2, Changping, Beijing, 102206, P. R. China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Physics and Energy Technology, North China Electric Power University, Baoding, 071000, P. R. China
| | - Ya-Ya Wang
- Institute of Clusters and Low Dimensional Nanomaterials, School of Mathematics and Physics, North China Electric Power University, Beinong Road 2, Changping, Beijing, 102206, P. R. China
- School of New Energy, North China Electric Power University, Beinong Road 2, Changping, Beijing, 102206, P. R. China
| | - Yan Chen
- Institute of Clusters and Low Dimensional Nanomaterials, School of Mathematics and Physics, North China Electric Power University, Beinong Road 2, Changping, Beijing, 102206, P. R. China
- School of New Energy, North China Electric Power University, Beinong Road 2, Changping, Beijing, 102206, P. R. China
| | - Meng-Meng Wang
- Institute of Clusters and Low Dimensional Nanomaterials, School of Mathematics and Physics, North China Electric Power University, Beinong Road 2, Changping, Beijing, 102206, P. R. China
- School of New Energy, North China Electric Power University, Beinong Road 2, Changping, Beijing, 102206, P. R. China
| | - Jiao-Jiao Chen
- Institute of Clusters and Low Dimensional Nanomaterials, School of Mathematics and Physics, North China Electric Power University, Beinong Road 2, Changping, Beijing, 102206, P. R. China
| | - Wei Li
- Institute of Clusters and Low Dimensional Nanomaterials, School of Mathematics and Physics, North China Electric Power University, Beinong Road 2, Changping, Beijing, 102206, P. R. China
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4
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Chae K, Mohamad NARC, Kim J, Won DI, Lin Z, Kim J, Kim DH. The promise of chiral electrocatalysis for efficient and sustainable energy conversion and storage: a comprehensive review of the CISS effect and future directions. Chem Soc Rev 2024. [PMID: 39158537 DOI: 10.1039/d3cs00316g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/20/2024]
Abstract
The integration of chirality, specifically through the chirality-induced spin selectivity (CISS) effect, into electrocatalytic processes represents a pioneering approach for enhancing the efficiency of energy conversion and storage systems. This review delves into the burgeoning field of chiral electrocatalysis, elucidating the fundamental principles, historical development, theoretical underpinnings, and practical applications of the CISS effect across a spectrum of electrocatalytic reactions, including the oxygen evolution reaction (OER), oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). We explore the methodological advancements in inducing the CISS effect through structural and surface engineering and discuss various techniques for its measurement, from magnetic conductive atomic force microscopy (mc-AFM) to hydrogen peroxide titration. Furthermore, this review highlights the transformative potential of the CISS effect in addressing the key challenges of the NRR and CO2RR processes and in mitigating singlet oxygen formation in metal-air batteries, thereby improving their performance and durability. Through this comprehensive overview, we aim to underscore the significant role of incorporating chirality and spin polarization in advancing electrocatalytic technologies for sustainable energy applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyunghee Chae
- Department of Chemistry and Nanoscience, Ewha Womans University, 52 Ewhayeodae-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03760, Korea.
| | - Nur Aqlili Riana Che Mohamad
- Department of Chemistry and Nanoscience, Ewha Womans University, 52 Ewhayeodae-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03760, Korea.
| | - Jeonghyeon Kim
- Department of Chemistry and Nanoscience, Ewha Womans University, 52 Ewhayeodae-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03760, Korea.
| | - Dong-Il Won
- Department of Chemistry and Nanoscience, Ewha Womans University, 52 Ewhayeodae-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03760, Korea.
| | - Zhiqun Lin
- Department of Chemistry and Nanoscience, Ewha Womans University, 52 Ewhayeodae-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03760, Korea.
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117585, Singapore.
| | - Jeongwon Kim
- Department of Chemistry and Nanoscience, Ewha Womans University, 52 Ewhayeodae-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03760, Korea.
| | - Dong Ha Kim
- Department of Chemistry and Nanoscience, Ewha Womans University, 52 Ewhayeodae-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03760, Korea.
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5
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Wu J, Wang S, Ji R, Kai D, Kong J, Liu S, Thitsartarn W, Tan BH, Chua MH, Xu J, Loh XJ, Yan Q, Zhu Q. In Situ Characterization Techniques for Electrochemical Nitrogen Reduction Reaction. ACS NANO 2024. [PMID: 39092833 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.4c05956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
The electrochemical reduction of nitrogen to produce ammonia is pivotal in modern society due to its environmental friendliness and the substantial influence that ammonia has on food, chemicals, and energy. However, the current electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) mechanism is still imperfect, which seriously impedes the development of NRR. In situ characterization techniques offer insight into the alterations taking place at the electrode/electrolyte interface throughout the NRR process, thereby helping us to explore the NRR mechanism in-depth and ultimately promote the development of efficient catalytic systems for NRR. Herein, we introduce the popular theories and mechanisms of the electrochemical NRR and provide an extensive overview on the application of various in situ characterization approaches for on-site detection of reaction intermediates and catalyst transformations during electrocatalytic NRR processes, including different optical techniques, X-ray-based techniques, electron microscopy, and scanning probe microscopy. Finally, some major challenges and future directions of these in situ techniques are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wu
- Institute of Sustainability for Chemicals, Energy and Environment (ISCE2), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 1 Pesek Road, Jurong Island, Singapore 627833, Republic of Singapore
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 639798, Republic of Singapore
| | - Suxi Wang
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Republic of Singapore
| | - Rong Ji
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Republic of Singapore
| | - Dan Kai
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Republic of Singapore
| | - Junhua Kong
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Republic of Singapore
| | - Songlin Liu
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Republic of Singapore
| | - Warintorn Thitsartarn
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Republic of Singapore
| | - Beng Hoon Tan
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Republic of Singapore
| | - Ming Hui Chua
- Institute of Sustainability for Chemicals, Energy and Environment (ISCE2), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 1 Pesek Road, Jurong Island, Singapore 627833, Republic of Singapore
| | - Jianwei Xu
- Institute of Sustainability for Chemicals, Energy and Environment (ISCE2), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 1 Pesek Road, Jurong Island, Singapore 627833, Republic of Singapore
| | - Xian Jun Loh
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Republic of Singapore
- Department of Material Science and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 9 Engineering Drive 1, #03-09 EA, Singapore 117575, Republic of Singapore
| | - Qingyu Yan
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Republic of Singapore
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 639798, Republic of Singapore
| | - Qiang Zhu
- Institute of Sustainability for Chemicals, Energy and Environment (ISCE2), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 1 Pesek Road, Jurong Island, Singapore 627833, Republic of Singapore
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, Innovis #08-03, Singapore 138634, Republic of Singapore
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, 21 Nanyang Link, Singapore 637371, Republic of Singapore
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6
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Kundu J, Kwon T, Lee K, Choi S. Exploration of metal-free 2D electrocatalysts toward the oxygen electroreduction. EXPLORATION (BEIJING, CHINA) 2024; 4:20220174. [PMID: 39175883 PMCID: PMC11335471 DOI: 10.1002/exp.20220174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
The advancement of economical and readily available electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) holds paramount importance in the advancement of fuel cells and metal-air batteries. Recently, 2D non-metallic materials have obtained substantial attention as viable alternatives for ORR catalysts due to their manifold advantages, encompassing low cost, ample availability, substantial surface-to-volume ratio, high conductivity, exceptional durability, and competitive activity. The augmented ORR performances observed in metal-free 2D materials typically arise from heteroatom doping, defects, or the formation of heterostructures. Here, the authors delve into the realm of electrocatalysts for the ORR, pivoting around metal-free 2D materials. Initially, the merits of metal-free 2D materials are explored and the reaction mechanism of the ORR is dissected. Subsequently, a comprehensive survey of diverse metal-free 2D materials is presented, tracing their evolutionary journey from fundamental concepts to pragmatic applications in the context of ORR. Substantial importance is given on the exploration of various strategies for enhancing metal-free 2D materials and assessing their impact on inherent material performance, including electronic properties. Finally, the challenges and future prospects that lie ahead for metal-free 2D materials are underscored, as they aspire to serve as efficient ORR electrocatalysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joyjit Kundu
- Department of Chemistry and Green‐Nano Materials Research CenterKyungpook National UniversityDaeguRepublic of Korea
| | - Taehyun Kwon
- Department of Chemistry and Research Institute of Basic SciencesIncheon National UniversityIncheonRepublic of Korea
| | - Kwangyeol Lee
- Department of Chemistry and Research Institute for Natural SciencesKorea UniversitySeoulRepublic of Korea
| | - Sang‐Il Choi
- Department of Chemistry and Green‐Nano Materials Research CenterKyungpook National UniversityDaeguRepublic of Korea
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7
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Zhu Z, Duan J, Chen S. Metal-Organic Framework (MOF)-Based Clean Energy Conversion: Recent Advances in Unlocking its Underlying Mechanisms. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2309119. [PMID: 38126651 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202309119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Carbon neutrality is an important goal for humanity . As an eco-friendly technology, electrocatalytic clean energy conversion technology has emerged in the 21st century. Currently, metal-organic framework (MOF)-based electrocatalysis, including oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), oxygen evolution reaction (OER), hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR), carbon dioxide reduction reaction (CO2RR), nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR), are the mainstream energy catalytic reactions, which are driven by electrocatalysis. In this paper, the current advanced characterizations for the analyses of MOF-based electrocatalytic energy reactions have been described in details, such as density function theory (DFT), machine learning, operando/in situ characterization, which provide in-depth analyses of the reaction mechanisms related to the above reactions reported in the past years. The practical applications that have been developed for some of the responses that are of application values, such as fuel cells, metal-air batteries, and water splitting have also been demonstrated. This paper aims to maximize the potential of MOF-based electrocatalysts in the field of energy catalysis, and to shed light on the development of current intense energy situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Zhu
- Key Laboratory for Soft Chemistry and Functional Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, School of Energy and Power Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, Nanjing, 210094, China
| | - Jingjing Duan
- Key Laboratory for Soft Chemistry and Functional Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, School of Energy and Power Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, Nanjing, 210094, China
| | - Sheng Chen
- Key Laboratory for Soft Chemistry and Functional Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, School of Energy and Power Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, Nanjing, 210094, China
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8
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Zhang Y, Wang D, Wei G, Li B, Mao Z, Xu SM, Tang S, Jiang J, Li Z, Wang X, Xu X. Engineering Spin Polarization of the Surface-Adsorbed Fe Atom by Intercalating a Transition Metal Atom into the MoS 2 Bilayer for Enhanced Nitrogen Reduction. JACS AU 2024; 4:1509-1520. [PMID: 38665658 PMCID: PMC11040660 DOI: 10.1021/jacsau.4c00030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
The precise control of spin states in transition metal (TM)-based single-atom catalysts (SACs) is crucial for advancing the functionality of electrocatalysts, yet it presents significant scientific challenges. Using density functional theory (DFT) calculations, we propose a novel mechanism to precisely modulate the spin state of the surface-adsorbed Fe atom on the MoS2 bilayer. This is achieved by strategically intercalating a TM atom into the interlayer space of the MoS2 bilayer. Our results show that these strategically intercalated TM atoms can induce a substantial interfacial charge polarization, thereby effectively controlling the charge transfer and spin polarization on the surface Fe site. In particular, by varying the identity of the intercalated TM atoms and their vacancy filling site, a continuous modulation of the spin states of the surface Fe site from low to medium to high can be achieved, which can be accurately described using descriptors composed of readily accessible intrinsic properties of materials. Using the electrochemical dinitrogen reduction reaction (eNRR) as a prototypical reaction, we discovered a universal volcano-like relation between the tuned spin and the catalytic activity of Fe-based SACs. This finding contrasts with the linear scaling relationships commonly seen in traditional studies and offers a robust new approach to modulating the activity of SACs through interfacial engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqin Zhang
- Key
Laboratory of Organo-Pharmaceutical Chemistry of Jiangxi Province, Gannan Normal University, Ganzhou 341000, China
| | - Da Wang
- School
of Mathematics and Computer Science, Gannan
Normal University, Ganzhou 341000, China
| | - Guanping Wei
- Key
Laboratory of Organo-Pharmaceutical Chemistry of Jiangxi Province, Gannan Normal University, Ganzhou 341000, China
| | - Baolei Li
- School
of Mathematics and Computer Science, Gannan
Normal University, Ganzhou 341000, China
| | - Zongchang Mao
- Key
Laboratory of Organo-Pharmaceutical Chemistry of Jiangxi Province, Gannan Normal University, Ganzhou 341000, China
| | - Si-Min Xu
- Key
Laboratory of Organo-Pharmaceutical Chemistry of Jiangxi Province, Gannan Normal University, Ganzhou 341000, China
| | - Shaobin Tang
- Key
Laboratory of Organo-Pharmaceutical Chemistry of Jiangxi Province, Gannan Normal University, Ganzhou 341000, China
| | - Jun Jiang
- Key
Laboratory of Precision and Intelligent Chemistry, School of Chemistry
and Materials Science, University of Science
and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Zhenyu Li
- Key
Laboratory of Precision and Intelligent Chemistry, School of Chemistry
and Materials Science, University of Science
and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Xijun Wang
- Department
of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - Xin Xu
- Collaborative
Innovation Center of Chemistry for Energy Materials, Shanghai Key
Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, MOE Key
Laboratory of Computational Physical Sciences, Department of Chemistry, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
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9
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Yu Y, Wei X, Chen W, Qian G, Chen C, Wang S, Min D. Design of Single-Atom Catalysts for E lectrocatalytic Nitrogen Fixation. CHEMSUSCHEM 2024; 17:e202301105. [PMID: 37985420 DOI: 10.1002/cssc.202301105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
The Electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction (ENRR) can be used to solve environmental problems as well as energy shortage. However, ENRR still faces the problems of low NH3 yield and low selectivity. The NH3 yield and selectivity in ENRR are affected by multiple factors such as electrolytic cells, electrolytes, and catalysts, etc. Among these catalysts are at the core of ENRR research. Single-atom catalysts (SACs) with intrinsic activity have become an emerging technology for numerous energy regeneration, including ENRR. In particular, regulating the microenvironment of SACs (hydrogen evolution reaction inhibition, carrier engineering, metal-carrier interaction, etc.) can break through the limitation of intrinsic activity of SACs. Therefore, this Review first introduces the basic principles of NRR and outlines the key factors affecting ENRR. Then a comprehensive summary is given of the progress of SACs (precious metals, non-precious metals, non-metallic) and diatomic catalysts (DACs) in ENRR. The impact of SACs microenvironmental regulation on ENRR is highlighted. Finally, further research directions for SACs in ENRR are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Yu
- College of Light Industry and Food Engineering, Guangxsi University, Nanning, 530004, P. R. China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Clean Pulp & Papermaking and Pollution Control, Nanning, 530004, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoxiao Wei
- College of Light Industry and Food Engineering, Guangxsi University, Nanning, 530004, P. R. China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Clean Pulp & Papermaking and Pollution Control, Nanning, 530004, P. R. China
| | - Wangqian Chen
- College of Light Industry and Food Engineering, Guangxsi University, Nanning, 530004, P. R. China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Clean Pulp & Papermaking and Pollution Control, Nanning, 530004, P. R. China
| | - Guangfu Qian
- College of Light Industry and Food Engineering, Guangxsi University, Nanning, 530004, P. R. China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Clean Pulp & Papermaking and Pollution Control, Nanning, 530004, P. R. China
| | - Changzhou Chen
- College of Light Industry and Food Engineering, Guangxsi University, Nanning, 530004, P. R. China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Clean Pulp & Papermaking and Pollution Control, Nanning, 530004, P. R. China
| | - Shuangfei Wang
- College of Light Industry and Food Engineering, Guangxsi University, Nanning, 530004, P. R. China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Clean Pulp & Papermaking and Pollution Control, Nanning, 530004, P. R. China
| | - Douyong Min
- College of Light Industry and Food Engineering, Guangxsi University, Nanning, 530004, P. R. China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Clean Pulp & Papermaking and Pollution Control, Nanning, 530004, P. R. China
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10
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Fang Y, Cao Y, Chen Q. Asymmetric Fe-O 2-Ti structures accelerate reduced-layer-Fe II "electron" conversion: Facilitating photocatalytic nitrogen fixation. J Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 658:401-414. [PMID: 38118187 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2023.12.077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/22/2023]
Abstract
As a green and sustainable method for ammonia production, solar photocatalytic nitrogen fixation (PNRR) provides a new approach to slowing down the consumption of non-renewable energy resources. Given the extremely huge energy required to activate inert nitrogen, a rational design of efficient nitrogen fixation catalytic materials is essential. This study constructs defective Ti3+-Ti3C2Ox to regulate the NH2-MIL-101(Fe) reduced layer-FeII 'electron' transition; meanwhile, the heterojunction interface electronic structure formed by coupling promotes catalytic charges' transfer/separation, while the interface-asymmetric Fe-O2-Ti structure accelerates the response with nitrogen. It is shown that the heterojunction NM-101(FeII/FeIII)-1.5 exhibits a 75.1 % FeII enrichment (FeII:FeIII), which successfully impedes the fouling relationship between the two (FeII/FeIII). Mössbauer spectroscopy analysis demonstrates that the presence of D1-high spin state FeIII and D2-low/medium spin state FeII structures in the heterojunction boosts the PNRR activity. Furthermore, it is found that the defective state Ti3+-Ti3C2Ox modulation enhances the reduced nitrogen fixation capacity of the heterojunction (CB = -0.84 eV) and decreases the interfacial charge transfer resistance, yielding 450 umol·g-1·h-1 ammonia. Furthermore, this study modulates the charge ration of the catalyst reduction layer by constructing a charge-asymmetric structure with Ti3+-deficient carriers; this method provides a potential opportunity for enhancing photocatalytic nitrogen fixation in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Fang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China; School of Materials and Construction Engineering, Guizhou Normal University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Yang Cao
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Qianlin Chen
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Guizhou Province for Efficient Utilization of Phosphorus and Fluorine Resources, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China.
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11
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Qiao M, Xie J, Zhu D. Mo-X 4 (X = O, NH and S)-mediated triphenylene-based two-dimensional carbon-rich conjugate frameworks for an efficient nitrogen reduction reaction. NANOSCALE 2024; 16:3676-3684. [PMID: 38288848 DOI: 10.1039/d3nr06549a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
The electrocatalytic nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) is a highly competitive approach for the ammonia synthesis to overcome the problems of high energy consumption and air pollution by the traditional Haber-Bosch process. However, the challenges of inert N2 molecule activation and the competitive hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) restrict the real utilization of the NRR. Herein, by means of density functional theory (DFT) calculations, we proposed three two-dimensional carbon-rich conjugate frameworks (2D-CCFs) with hexa-substituted triphenylene organic linkers with a metal atom Mo and functional groups X (X = O, NH, and S), namely Mo3(HOTP)2, Mo3(HITP)2 and Mo3(THT)2, to investigate their NRR performance. Our theoretical calculations reveal that Mo atoms in 2D-CCFs can efficiently capture and activate N2 molecules. Among the three structures, Mo3(HOTP)2 exhibited the most superior performance toward the NRR with a favorable limiting potential of -0.41 V and good selectivity for the HER. Furthermore, the catalytic efficiency of 2D-CCFs can be regulated by changing the atoms X in Mo-X4 motifs, providing a new scenario for the development of highly efficient NRR catalysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Qiao
- School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Institute of Advanced Materials and Flexible Electronics (IAMFE), Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, 219 Ningliu Road, Nanjing, 210044, China.
| | - Jiachi Xie
- School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Institute of Advanced Materials and Flexible Electronics (IAMFE), Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, 219 Ningliu Road, Nanjing, 210044, China.
| | - Dongdong Zhu
- School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Institute of Advanced Materials and Flexible Electronics (IAMFE), Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, 219 Ningliu Road, Nanjing, 210044, China.
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12
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Qin M, Chen L, Zhang W, Yang J. A Self-Consistent Framework for Tailored Single-Atom Catalysts in Electrocatalytic Nitrogen Reduction. J Phys Chem Lett 2024; 15:1089-1096. [PMID: 38261607 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpclett.3c03213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
The catalytic activity of single-atom catalysts (SACs) is crucially affected by the actual ligand configurations under the reaction condition; thus, carefully considering the reaction condition is crucial for the theoretical design of SACs. With single metal atoms supported by g-C3N4 as a model system, a self-consistent screening framework is proposed for the theoretical design of SACs with respect to the nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR). Pourbaix diagrams are constructed on the basis of various co-adsorption configurations of N2, H, and OH. Possible stable configurations containing N2 under the expected reaction condition are considered to obtain the limiting potential of NRR, and the stability of the configuration at the calculated UL is rechecked. With this framework, AC stacking of double-layer g-C3N4-supported Nb and AA stacking and AB stacking of double-layer g-C3N4-supported W are predicted to exhibit superior NRR activity with UL values of -0.36, -0.45, and -0.52 V, respectively. This procedure can be widely applied to the screening of SACs for electrocatalytic reactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingxin Qin
- Key Laboratory of Precision and Intelligent Chemistry, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Lanlan Chen
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Wenhua Zhang
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
- Laboratory for Chemical Technology, Ghent University, Ghent 9052, Belgium
| | - Jinlong Yang
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
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13
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Oguz IC, Jaouen F, Mineva T. Exploring Spin Distribution and Electronic Properties in FeN 4-Graphene Catalysts with Edge Terminations. Molecules 2024; 29:479. [PMID: 38257393 PMCID: PMC11154451 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29020479] [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: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Understanding the spin distribution in FeN4-doped graphene nanoribbons with zigzag and armchair terminations is crucial for tuning the electronic properties of graphene-supported non-platinum catalysts. Since the spin-polarized carbon and iron electronic states may act together to change the electronic properties of the doped graphene, we provide in this work a systematic evaluation using a periodic density-functional theory-based method of the variation of spin-moment distribution and electronic properties with the position and orientation of the FeN4 defects, and the edge terminations of the graphene nanoribbons. Antiferromagnetic and ferromagnetic spin ordering of the zigzag edges were considered. We reveal that the electronic structures in both zigzag and armchair geometries are very sensitive to the location of FeN4 defects, changing from semi-conducting (in-plane defect location) to half-metallic (at-edge defect location). The introduction of FeN4 defects at edge positions cancels the known dependence of the magnetic and electronic proper-ties of undoped graphene nanoribbons on their edge geometries. The implications of the reported results for catalysis are also discussed in view of the presented electronic and magnetic properties.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Tzonka Mineva
- ICGM, Univ. Montpellier, 34293 Montpellier, France; (I.C.O.); (F.J.)
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14
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Ding YQ, Zhang FX, Li Y, Ma JB. Manipulating Reactivity of Ir(CH 2) 0-2+ Cations toward Dinitrogen at Room Temperature: A Unique Dependence on the Organic Ligand Structures. J Phys Chem A 2024; 128:449-455. [PMID: 38174707 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpca.3c07579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Nitrogen (N2) activation at room temperature has long been a great challenge. Therefore, the rational design of reactive species to adsorb N2, which is a prerequisite for cleavage of the strong N≡N triple bond in industrial and biological processes, is highly desirable and meaningful. Herein, the N2 adsorption process is controlled by regulating the types and numbers of organic ligands, and the organic ligands are produced through the reactions of Ir+ with methane and ethane. CH4 molecules dissociate on the Ir+ cations to form Ir(CH2)1,2+. The reaction of Ir+ with C2H6 can generate HIrC2H3+, which is different from the structure of Ir(CH2)2+ obtained from Ir+/CH4. The reactivity order of N2 adsorption is Ir(CH2)2+ > HIrC2H3+ ≫ HIrCH+ ≈ Ir+ (almost inert under similar reaction conditions), indicating that different organic ligand structures affect reactivity dramatically. The main reason for this interesting reactivity difference is that the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) level of Ir(CH2)2+ is much closer to the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) level of N2 than those of the other three systems. This study provides new insights into the adsorption of N2 on metal-organic ligand species, in which the organic ligand dominates the reactivity, and it discovers new clues in designing effective transition metal carbine species for N2 activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Qi Ding
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Photoelectronic/Electrophotonic Conversion Materials, Key Laboratory of Cluster Science of Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 102488, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Pollutant Analysis & Reuse Technology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hubei Normal University, Huangshi 435002, P. R. China
| | - Feng-Xiang Zhang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Photoelectronic/Electrophotonic Conversion Materials, Key Laboratory of Cluster Science of Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 102488, China
| | - Ying Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Photoelectronic/Electrophotonic Conversion Materials, Key Laboratory of Cluster Science of Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 102488, China
| | - Jia-Bi Ma
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Photoelectronic/Electrophotonic Conversion Materials, Key Laboratory of Cluster Science of Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 102488, China
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15
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Nie J, Li Y, Gao D, Fang Y, Lin J, Tang C, Guo Z. Carbon doped hexagonal boron nitride as an efficient metal-free catalyst for NO capture and reduction. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2024; 26:2539-2547. [PMID: 38170810 DOI: 10.1039/d3cp04718k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
The electrochemical NO reduction reaction (NORR) towards NH3 is considered a promising strategy to cope with both NO removal and NH3 production. Currently, the research on NORR electrocatalysts mainly focuses on metal-based catalysts, while metal-free catalysts are quite scarce. In this work, we have systematically investigated the properties of pristine and C/O doped h-BN for efficient NO capture and reduction. Our results reveal that the basal plane of pristine h-BN is inert to the adsorption of NO, while doping C or O can significantly enhance the NO capture abilities of h-BN. Then, we highlight that C-doped h-BN exhibits excellent NORR catalytic performance with a relatively low limiting potential of -0.28 V. Further analysis shows that the suitable adsorption strength of NO on the C-doped h-BN surface is the prime reason for its excellent NO reduction activity, which is shown to be due to appropriate electronic interactions between the active site and NO. Last but not least, the catalytic selectivity of h-BN towards the NORR is confirmed by inhibiting the competing hydrogen evolution reaction. Our findings not only provide deeper insight into the essential effect of element doping on the catalytic activities of h-BN, but also propose general design principles for high-performance metal-free NORR electrocatalysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiali Nie
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Boron Nitride Micro and Nano Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300130, China.
| | - Ying Li
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Boron Nitride Micro and Nano Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300130, China.
| | - Dongyue Gao
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Boron Nitride Micro and Nano Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300130, China.
| | - Yi Fang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Boron Nitride Micro and Nano Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300130, China.
| | - Jing Lin
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Boron Nitride Micro and Nano Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300130, China.
| | - Chengchun Tang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Boron Nitride Micro and Nano Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300130, China.
| | - Zhonglu Guo
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Boron Nitride Micro and Nano Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300130, China.
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16
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Zhao CX, Liu X, Liu JN, Wang J, Wan X, Li XY, Tang C, Wang C, Song L, Shui J, Peng HJ, Li BQ, Zhang Q. Inductive Effect on Single-Atom Sites. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:27531-27538. [PMID: 38054906 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c09190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
Single-atom catalysts exhibit promising electrocatalytic activity, a trait that can be further enhanced through the introduction of heteroatom doping within the carbon skeleton. Nonetheless, the intricate relationship between the doping positions and activity remains incompletely elucidated. This contribution sheds light on an inductive effect of single-atom sites, showcasing that the activity of the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) can be augmented by reducing the spatial gap between the doped heteroatom and the single-atom sites. Drawing inspiration from this inductive effect, we propose a synthesis strategy involving ligand modification aimed at precisely adjusting the distance between dopants and single-atom sites. This precise synthesis leads to optimized electrocatalytic activity for the ORR. The resultant electrocatalyst, characterized by Fe-N3P1 single-atom sites, demonstrates remarkable ORR activity, thus exhibiting great potential in zinc-air batteries and fuel cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang-Xin Zhao
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Green Chemical Reaction Engineering and Technology, Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Xinyan Liu
- Institute of Fundamental and Frontier Sciences, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 611731, Sichuan, China
| | - Jia-Ning Liu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Green Chemical Reaction Engineering and Technology, Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Juan Wang
- Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Xin Wan
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Xi-Yao Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Green Chemical Reaction Engineering and Technology, Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Cheng Tang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Green Chemical Reaction Engineering and Technology, Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Changda Wang
- National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230029, Anhui, China
| | - Li Song
- National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory, CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230029, Anhui, China
| | - Jianglan Shui
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Hong-Jie Peng
- Institute of Fundamental and Frontier Sciences, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 611731, Sichuan, China
| | - Bo-Quan Li
- Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Qiang Zhang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Green Chemical Reaction Engineering and Technology, Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
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17
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Zong J, He C, Zhang W, Bai M. Transition metals anchored on two-dimensional p-BN support with center-coordination scaling relationship descriptor for spontaneous visible-light-driven photocatalytic nitrogen reduction. J Colloid Interface Sci 2023; 652:878-889. [PMID: 37633112 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2023.08.114] [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: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023]
Abstract
Solar energy has the potential to revolutionize the production of ammonia, as it could provide a reliable and uninterrupted source of energy for the chemical reaction involved. However, improving the catalytic performance of catalysts often leads to a reduction in their band gaps, which results in insufficient photogenerated electron potential to realize the nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR), and thus the development of NRR efficient photocatalysts remains a great challenge. Herein, based on the density functional theory (DFT), a series of single-atom photocatalysts with transition metals (TMs) doped on porous boron nitride (p-BN) nanosheet are proposed for NRR. Among them, Re-B3@p-BN could effectively catalyze gas-phase N2 through the corresponding pathways with limiting potentials of 0.31 V. Meanwhile, it exhibits excellent light absorption efficiency under illumination and could spontaneously catalyse nitrogen fixation reactions due to the suitable forbidden band and high photogenerated electron potential. Moreover, a linear relationship descriptor based on the intrinsic properties has been established, using a machine learning approach by considering the combined effects of the central metal atom and the coordination atoms. This descriptor could help accelerate the development of rational and improved 2D NRR photocatalysts with high catalytic activity and high selectivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingshan Zong
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Chang'an University, Xi'an 710064, China
| | - Cheng He
- State Key Laboratory for Mechanical Behavior of Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Wenxue Zhang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Chang'an University, Xi'an 710064, China.
| | - Min Bai
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Chang'an University, Xi'an 710064, China
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18
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Ju L, Ma Y, Tan X, Kou L. Controllable Electrocatalytic to Photocatalytic Conversion in Ferroelectric Heterostructures. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:26393-26402. [PMID: 38010364 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c10271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Photocatalytic and electrocatalytic reactions to produce value-added chemicals offer promising solutions for addressing the energy crisis and environmental pollution. Photocatalysis is driven by light excitation and charge separation and relies on semiconducting catalysts, while electrocatalysis is driven by external electric current and is mostly based on metallic catalysts with high electrical conductivity. Due to the distinct reaction mechanism, the conversion between the two catalytic types has remained largely unexplored. Herein, by means of density functional theory (DFT) simulations, we demonstrated that the ferroelectric heterostructures Mo-BN@In2Se3 and WSe2@In2Se3 can exhibit semiconducting or metallic features depending on the polarization direction as a result of the built-in field and electron transfer. Using the nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) as examples, the metallic heterostructures act as excellent electrocatalysts for these reactions, while the semiconducting heterostructures serve as the corresponding photocatalysts with improved optical absorption, enhanced charge separation, and low Gibbs free energy change. The findings not only bridge physical phenomena of the electronic phase transition with chemical reactions but also offer a new and feasible approach to significantly improve the catalytic efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Ju
- School of Physics and Electric Engineering, Anyang Normal University, Anyang 455000, China
| | - Yandong Ma
- School of Physics, State Key Laboratory of Crystal Materials, Shandong University, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Xin Tan
- Institute for Carbon Neutralization, College of Chemistry and Materials Engineering, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325035, Zhejiang, China
| | - Liangzhi Kou
- School of Mechanical, Medical and Process Engineering Faculty, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4001, Australia
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19
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Li L, Xiao J. Activity Trend and Selectivity of Electrochemical Ammonia Synthesis in Reverse Artificial Nitrogen Cycle. CHEMSUSCHEM 2023; 16:e202300593. [PMID: 37293693 DOI: 10.1002/cssc.202300593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Ammonia is important for modern agriculture and food production as it is a major source of fertilizer. Electrochemical ammonia synthesis (EAS) with sustainable energy generated electricity and decentralized reactors has been considered as environmentally friendly process. Several nitrogen sources have been considered and intensively studied in experiments and computations. Recently, it has been proposed and demonstrated that nitrogen oxides (NOx ) electroreduction for selective ammonia production is feasible. Fundamental insights on experimental observation are necessary for more rational design of catalysts and reactors in the future. In this concept, we review the theoretical and computational insights of electrochemical nitrogen oxides reduction, particularly, the activity trend over diverse transition metal catalysts and products selectivity at varying potentials. Finally, we address the opportunities and challenges in the reverse artificial nitrogen cycle, as well as fundamental issues in electrochemical reaction modelling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Catalysis, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, 116023, Liaoning, China) E
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
- Dalian National Laboratory for Clean Energy, Dalian, 116023, Liaoning, China
| | - Jianping Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Catalysis, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, 116023, Liaoning, China) E
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
- Dalian National Laboratory for Clean Energy, Dalian, 116023, Liaoning, China
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20
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Gutsev GL, Tibbetts KM, Gutsev LG, Aldoshin SM, Ramachandran BR. Nitrogen Reduction to Ammonia on a Fe 16 Nanocluster: A Computational Study of Catalysis. J Phys Chem A 2023; 127:9052-9068. [PMID: 37856324 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpca.3c05426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
The sequence of elementary steps leading to reductive ammonia formation from N2 and H2 catalyzed by a Fe16 cluster is studied using generalized gradient approximation density functional theory and an all-electron basis set of triple-ζ quality. The computational methods are validated by comparison to experimental data such as binding energies where possible. First, the associative and dissociative attachment of N2 to Fe16 is considered, followed by exploration of the pathways leading to distal (Fe16-N-NH2) and enzymatic (NFe16-NH2) formation of an amino group. Next, the pathways leading to NH3 formation in both distal and enzymatic cases are examined. Two mechanisms for NH3 detachment have been discovered. An interesting peculiarity of the pathways is that they often proceed with total spin fluctuations, which are related to the rupture and formation of bonds on the surface of the catalyst over the course of the reactions. The reaction Fe16 + N2 + 2H2 → Fe16NH + NH3 is found to be exothermic by 1.02 eV (93.8 kJ/mol).
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Affiliation(s)
- Gennady L Gutsev
- Department of Physics, Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, Florida 32307, United States
| | - Katharine M Tibbetts
- Department of Chemistry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia 23284, United States
| | - Lavrenty G Gutsev
- Federal Research Center of Problems of Chemical Physics and Medicinal Chemistry RAS, Semenov prospect 1, Chernogolovka, 142432, Russia
- Institute for Micromanufacturing, Louisiana Tech University, Ruston, Louisiana 71272, United States
| | - Sergey M Aldoshin
- Federal Research Center of Problems of Chemical Physics and Medicinal Chemistry RAS, Semenov prospect 1, Chernogolovka, 142432, Russia
| | - Bala R Ramachandran
- Institute for Micromanufacturing, Louisiana Tech University, Ruston, Louisiana 71272, United States
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21
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Zuo C, Su Q, Yu L. Research Progress in Composite Materials for Photocatalytic Nitrogen Fixation. Molecules 2023; 28:7277. [PMID: 37959696 PMCID: PMC10650292 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28217277] [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: 09/10/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Ammonia is an essential component of modern chemical products and the building unit of natural life molecules. The Haber-Bosch (H-B) process is mainly used in the ammonia synthesis process in the industry. In this process, nitrogen and hydrogen react to produce ammonia with metal catalysts under high temperatures and pressure. However, the H-B process consumes a lot of energy and simultaneously emits greenhouse gases. In the "double carbon" effect, to promote the combination of photocatalytic technology and artificial nitrogen fixation, the development of green synthetic reactions has been widely discussed. Using an inexhaustible supply of sunlight as a power source, researchers have used photocatalysts to reduce nitrogen to ammonia, which is energy-dense and easy to store and transport. This process completes the conversion from light energy to chemical energy. At the same time, it achieves zero carbon emissions, reducing energy consumption and environmental pollution in industrial ammonia synthesis from the source. The application of photocatalytic technology in the nitrogen cycle has become one of the research hotspots in the new energy field. This article provides a classification of and an introduction to nitrogen-fixing photocatalysts reported in recent years and prospects the future development trends in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Lei Yu
- College of Chemistry & Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Weifang University, Weifang 261061, China; (C.Z.); (Q.S.)
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22
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Liu W, Sun J, Xie Y, Chen L, Xu J. The effective regulation of heterogeneous N-heterocyclic carbenes: structures, electronic properties and transition metal adsorption. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2023; 25:28382-28392. [PMID: 37842982 DOI: 10.1039/d3cp02777e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Heterogeneous N-heterocyclic carbene materials have attracted increasing interest in the fields of materials science and catalysis due to their unique properties and potential applications. However, current heterogeneous systems primarily focus on a single class of carbene. In this work, we simultaneously introduce two classes of typical five-membered carbenes into a graphene lattice, forming a series of novel two-dimensional heterogeneous N-heterocyclic carbene nanomaterials (2D-NCMs) composed of multiple carbenes. First-principles calculations demonstrate the thermodynamic stability of the designed 2D-NCMs, as well as their diverse electronic properties ranging from metallic to semiconducting. The incorporation of carbenes in the 2D-NCMs enables them to adsorb both acidic BCl3 and basic CO molecules, thus exhibiting unique amphoteric properties. Furthermore, the 2D-NCMs exhibit remarkable adsorption capacities for ten transition metals, highlighting their promising potential for future catalytic applications. By adjusting the proportions of the two classes of carbenes, we can effectively regulate the electronic properties and adsorption capacities of small molecules and transition metals in the 2D-NCMs. This study presents a novel strategy for designing and regulating the properties of heterogeneous N-heterocyclic carbenes, offering significant implications in the fields of catalysis and materials science.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Liu
- College of Optical, Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Zhejiang A&F University, Lin'an, Zhejiang, 311300, P. R. China.
| | - Jingchao Sun
- College of Optical, Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Zhejiang A&F University, Lin'an, Zhejiang, 311300, P. R. China.
| | - Yunhao Xie
- College of Optical, Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Zhejiang A&F University, Lin'an, Zhejiang, 311300, P. R. China.
| | - Liang Chen
- School of Physical Science and Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, P. R. China
- College of Optical, Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Zhejiang A&F University, Lin'an, Zhejiang, 311300, P. R. China.
| | - Jing Xu
- College of Optical, Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Zhejiang A&F University, Lin'an, Zhejiang, 311300, P. R. China.
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Han Y, Xu H, Li Q, Du A, Yan X. DFT-assisted low-dimensional carbon-based electrocatalysts design and mechanism study: a review. Front Chem 2023; 11:1286257. [PMID: 37920412 PMCID: PMC10619919 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2023.1286257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Low-dimensional carbon-based (LDC) materials have attracted extensive research attention in electrocatalysis because of their unique advantages such as structural diversity, low cost, and chemical tolerance. They have been widely used in a broad range of electrochemical reactions to relieve environmental pollution and energy crisis. Typical examples include hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), oxygen evolution reaction (OER), oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), carbon dioxide reduction reaction (CO2RR), and nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR). Traditional "trial and error" strategies greatly slowed down the rational design of electrocatalysts for these important applications. Recent studies show that the combination of density functional theory (DFT) calculations and experimental research is capable of accurately predicting the structures of electrocatalysts, thus revealing the catalytic mechanisms. Herein, current well-recognized collaboration methods of theory and practice are reviewed. The commonly used calculation methods and the basic functionals are briefly summarized. Special attention is paid to descriptors that are widely accepted as a bridge linking the structure and activity and the breakthroughs for high-volume accurate prediction of electrocatalysts. Importantly, correlated multiple descriptors are used to systematically describe the complicated interfacial electrocatalytic processes of LDC catalysts. Furthermore, machine learning and high-throughput simulations are crucial in assisting the discovery of new multiple descriptors and reaction mechanisms. This review will guide the further development of LDC electrocatalysts for extended applications from the aspect of DFT computations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Han
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Griffith University, Nathan Campus, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- School of Engineering and Built Environment, Griffith University, Nathan Campus, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Hongzhe Xu
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Griffith University, Nathan Campus, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- School of Engineering and Built Environment, Griffith University, Nathan Campus, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Qin Li
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Griffith University, Nathan Campus, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- School of Engineering and Built Environment, Griffith University, Nathan Campus, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Aijun Du
- School of Chemistry and Physics and Centre for Materials Science, Queensland University of Technology, Gardens Point Campus, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Xuecheng Yan
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Griffith University, Nathan Campus, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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24
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Yang J, Liu Q, Chen S, Ding X, Chen Y, Cai D, Wang X. Single-Atom and Dual-Atom Electrocatalysts: Synthesis and Applications. Chempluschem 2023; 88:e202300407. [PMID: 37666797 DOI: 10.1002/cplu.202300407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
Distinguishing themselves from nanostructured catalysts, single-atom catalysts (SACs) typically consist of positively charged single metal and coordination atoms without any metal-metal bonds. Dual-atom catalysts (DACs) have emerged as extended family members of SACs in recent years. Both SACs and DACs possess characteristics that combine both homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis, offering advantages such as uniform active sites and adjustable interactions with ligands, while also inheriting the high stability and recyclability associated with heterogeneous catalyst systems. They offer numerous advantages and are extensively utilized in the field of electrocatalysis, so they have emerged as one of the most prominent material research platforms in the direction of electrocatalysis. This review provides a comprehensive review of SACs and DACs in the field of electrocatalysis: encompassing economic production, elucidating electrocatalytic reaction pathways and associated mechanisms, uncovering structure-performance relationships, and addressing major challenges and opportunities within this domain. Our objective is to present novel ideas for developing advanced synthesis strategies, precisely controlling the microstructure of catalytic active sites, establishing accurate structure-activity relationships, unraveling potential mechanisms underlying electrocatalytic reactions, identifying more efficient reaction paths, and enhancing overall performance in electrocatalytic reactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianjian Yang
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou, 515031, P. R. China
| | - Qiang Liu
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, P. R. China
| | - Shian Chen
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou, 515031, P. R. China
| | - Xiangnong Ding
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou, 515031, P. R. China
| | - Yuqi Chen
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou, 515031, P. R. China
| | - Dongsong Cai
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou, 515031, P. R. China
| | - Xi Wang
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Shantou, 515031, P. R. China
- Department of Physics, School of Physical Science and Engineering, Beijing Jiaotong University, Beijing, 100044, P. R. China
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25
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Younis MA, Manzoor S, Ali A, Haq F, Aziz T, Kiran M, Farid A, El Sayed ME, Murshed MN, El-Bahy ZM, Akhtar MS. Nanosheet arrays of iron oxide for enhanced ammonia synthesis via electrochemical nitrogen reduction for prospective algal membrane bioreactors. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 338:139621. [PMID: 37487973 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.139621] [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: 05/07/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
The earth's nitrogen cycle relies on the effective conversion of nitrogen (N2) to ammonia (NH3). As a result, the research and development of catalysts that are earth-abundant, inexpensive, and highly efficient but do not need precious metals is of the utmost significance. In this investigation, we present a controlled synthesis technique to the fabrication of an iron oxide (Fe2O3) nanosheet array by annealing at temperatures ranging from 350 to 550 °C. This array will be used for the electrochemical reduction of atmospheric N2 to NH3 in electrolytes. The Fe2O3 nanosheet array that was produced as a result displays outstanding electrochemical performance as well as remarkable stability. When compared to a hydrogen electrode working under normal temperature and pressure conditions, the Fe2O3 nanosheet array produces an impressive NH3 production rate of 18.04 g per hour per mg of catalytically active material in 0.1 M KOH electrolyte, exhibiting an enhanced Faradaic efficiency (FE) of 13.5% at -0.35 V. This is accomplished by exhibiting an enhanced Faradaic efficiency (FE) of 0.1 M KOH electrolyte. The results of experiments and electrochemical studies reveal that the existence of cation defects in the Fe2O3 nanosheets plays an essential part in the enhancement of the electrocatalytic activity that takes place during nitrogen reduction reactions (NRR). This study not only contributes to the expanding family of transition-metal-based catalysts with increased electrocatalytic activity for NRR, but it also represents a substantial breakthrough in the design of catalysts that are based on transition metals, so it's a win-win. In addition, the use of Fe2O3 nanosheets as electrocatalysts has a lot of potential in algal membrane bioreactors because it makes nitrogen fixation easier, it encourages algae growth, and it makes nitrogen cycling more resource-efficient.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Saira Manzoor
- Shenzhen University. Institute of Microscale Optoelectronics, 518060, China.
| | - Amjad Ali
- Jiangsu University. Research School of Polymeric Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhenjiang, 212013, China
| | - Fazal Haq
- Institute of Chemical Sciences, Gomal University, D.I.Khan 29050, Pakistan
| | - Tariq Aziz
- School of Engineering, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Mehwish Kiran
- Faculty of Agriculture, Gomal University, D.I.Khan 29050, Pakistan
| | - Arshad Farid
- Gomal Center of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Gomal University, D.I.Khan 29050, Pakistan
| | - Mohamed E El Sayed
- Physics Department, Faculty of Science and Arts, King Khalid University, Muhayl Asser, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad N Murshed
- Physics Department, Faculty of Science and Arts, King Khalid University, Muhayl Asser, Saudi Arabia
| | - Zeinhom M El-Bahy
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, Nasr City, 11884, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Muhammad Saeed Akhtar
- School of Chemical Engineering, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, 712-749, South Korea.
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26
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Ho TH, Bui VQ, Nguyen QAT, Kawazoe Y, Kim SG, Nam PC. Unleashing the power of boron: enhancing nitrogen reduction reaction through defective ReS 2 monolayers. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2023; 25:25389-25397. [PMID: 37705426 DOI: 10.1039/d3cp02647g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
Density functional theory (DFT) calculations were utilized to investigate the electrocatalytic potential of single boron (B) atom doping in defective ReS2 monolayers as an active site. Our investigation revealed that B-doped defective ReS2, containing S and S-Re-S defects, demonstrated remarkable conductivity, and emerged as an exceptionally active catalyst for nitrogen reduction reactions (NRR), exhibiting limiting potentials of 0.63 and 0.53 V, respectively. For both cases, we determined the potential by examining the hydrogenation of adsorbed N2* to N2H*. Although the competing hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) process appeared dominant in the S-Re-S defect case, its impact was minimal. The outstanding NRR performance can be ascribed to the robust chemical interactions between B and N atoms. The adsorption of N2 on B weakens the N-N bond, thereby facilitating the formation of NH3. Moreover, we verified the selectivity and stability of the catalysts for NRR. Our findings indicate that B-doped defective ReS2 monolayers hold considerable promise for electrocatalysis in a variety of applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thi H Ho
- Laboratory for Computational Physics, Institute for Computational Science and Artificial Intelligence, Van Lang University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Faculty of Mechanical-Electrical and Computer Engineering, School of Technology, Van Lang University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
| | - Viet Q Bui
- Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, The University of Danang, 41 Le Duan, Danang, Vietnam.
| | - Quynh Anh T Nguyen
- Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, The University of Danang, 41 Le Duan, Danang, Vietnam.
| | - Yoshiyuki Kawazoe
- New Industry Creation Hatchery Center, Tohoku University, Sendai, 980-8579, Japan
- School of Physics, Institute of Science, Suranaree University of Technology, 111 University Avenue, Nakhon Ratchasima, 30000, Thailand
- Physics and Nanotechnoloy, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankurathur, Tamil Nadu, 603203, India
| | - Seong-Gon Kim
- Department of Physics & Astronomy and Center for Computational Sciences, Mississippi State University, Starkville, Mississippi 39762, USA
| | - Pham Cam Nam
- Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, The University of Danang, 41 Le Duan, Danang, Vietnam.
- Faculty of Chemical Engineering, The University of Danang-University of Science and Technology, Danang City 550000, Vietnam
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27
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Zhang YZ, Li PH, Ren YN, He Y, Zhang CX, Hu J, Cao XQ, Leung MKH. Metal-Based Electrocatalysts for Selective Electrochemical Nitrogen Reduction to Ammonia. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 13:2580. [PMID: 37764608 PMCID: PMC10535433 DOI: 10.3390/nano13182580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Ammonia (NH3) plays a significant role in the manufacture of fertilizers, nitrogen-containing chemical production, and hydrogen storage. The electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction (e-NRR) is an attractive prospect for achieving clean and sustainable NH3 production, under mild conditions driven by renewable energy. The sluggish cleavage of N≡N bonds and poor selectivity of e-NRR are the primary challenges for e-NRR, over the competitive hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). The rational design of e-NRR electrocatalysts is of vital significance and should be based on a thorough understanding of the structure-activity relationship and mechanism. Among the various explored e-NRR catalysts, metal-based electrocatalysts have drawn increasing attention due to their remarkable performances. This review highlighted the recent progress and developments in metal-based electrocatalysts for e-NRR. Different kinds of metal-based electrocatalysts used in NH3 synthesis (including noble-metal-based catalysts, non-noble-metal-based catalysts, and metal compound catalysts) were introduced. The theoretical screening and the experimental practice of rational metal-based electrocatalyst design with different strategies were systematically summarized. Additionally, the structure-function relationship to improve the NH3 yield was evaluated. Finally, current challenges and perspectives of this burgeoning area were provided. The objective of this review is to provide a comprehensive understanding of metal-based e-NRR electrocatalysts with a focus on enhancing their efficiency in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Zhen Zhang
- College of Safety and Environmental Engineering, Shandong University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266590, China; (Y.-Z.Z.)
- Ability R&D Energy Research Centre, School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Peng-Hui Li
- College of Safety and Environmental Engineering, Shandong University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266590, China; (Y.-Z.Z.)
| | - Yi-Nuo Ren
- College of Safety and Environmental Engineering, Shandong University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266590, China; (Y.-Z.Z.)
| | - Yun He
- School of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430024, China
| | - Cheng-Xu Zhang
- Faculty of Metallurgical and Energy Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650093, China
| | - Jue Hu
- Faculty of Metallurgical and Energy Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650093, China
| | - Xiao-Qiang Cao
- College of Safety and Environmental Engineering, Shandong University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266590, China; (Y.-Z.Z.)
| | - Michael K. H. Leung
- Ability R&D Energy Research Centre, School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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28
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Lin W, Yin WJ, Wen B. Proximity effects in graphene-supported single-atom catalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction. J Chem Phys 2023; 159:094703. [PMID: 37655775 DOI: 10.1063/5.0165695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The interaction between adjacent active sites is crucial to balance the efficiency and utilization of functional atoms in single-atom catalysts. Herein, the catalytic activity of hydrogen evolution reaction at different site (nitrogen coordinated transition metal centers embedded in graphene) distances was comprehensively investigated by density functional theory calculations. The results show that a proximity effect of reactivity and site spacing can be identified in the Co-series single-atom catalysts. Although the proximity effect is more linearly responded with the site spacing along x direction, an optimal distance of ∼0.8 and ∼2.8 nm are found for Co and Rh, Ir atoms, respectively. An in-depth analysis of the electronic property reveals that the proximity effect is caused by the distinct net charge of the active site, which is affected by the dz2 position relative to EF. Subsequently, an excess electron nodal channel in x direction was found to serve as a communication pathway between the active sites. Through the finding in this work, an optimal Fe-N2C2 structure was deliberately designed and has shown prominent proximity effect as Co-series do. The results reported in this work provide a simple and effective tuning method for the reactivity of a single-atom catalyst.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weijie Lin
- School of Physics and Electronics, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Wen-Jin Yin
- School of Physics and Electronic Science, Hunan University of Science and Technology, Xiangtan 411201, China
| | - Bo Wen
- School of Physics and Electronics, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
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29
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Prabagar JS, Vinod D, Sneha Y, Anilkumar KM, Rtimi S, Wantala K, Shivaraju HP. Novel gC 3N 4/MgZnAl-MMO derived from LDH for solar-based photocatalytic ammonia production using atmospheric nitrogen. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:90383-90396. [PMID: 36585579 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-24997-0] [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: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The development of catalysis technologies for sustainable environmental applications, especially an alternative to ammonia (NH3) production under the Haber-Bosch process, has gained a lot of scope in recent days. The current work demonstrated a green synthesis of graphitic carbon nitride (gC3N4) containing magnesium-zinc-aluminium mixed metal oxides (MgZnAl-MMO) derived from layered double hydroxide (LDH) for visible light aided catalytic production of ammonia. Pyrolysis-hydrothermal techniques were adopted for the synthesis and fabrication of the gC3N4/MgZnAl-MMO catalytic composite. Characterization results of field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV-visible spectroscopy, photoluminescence (PL), etc. showed the desired properties and functionalities like semi-crystalline structure with rough surface morphology that enhance the sorption reactions. Catalytic composite gC3N4/MgZnAl-MMO showed a bandgap energy of 2.16 eV that is considerably shifted toward the visible range when compared to gC3N4 (2.39 eV) and MgZnAl-MMO (2.93 eV). The results were also well complied with XPS results obtained that promote solar-based photocatalysis. The gC3N4/MgZnAl-MMO assisted photocatalytic production of NH3 in an aqueous media proved to be acceptable by the production of a maximum 47.56 μmol/L NH3 under visible spectrum employing a light emitting diode (LED) source. The results showed that the advancement of catalyst for desired functionalities and NH3 production using LED simulating solar light-aided catalysis would be an alternative to the Haber-Bosch process and solar-based sustainable processes for NH3 production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jijoe Samuel Prabagar
- Department of Environmental Sciences, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Mysuru, 570015, India
| | - Divya Vinod
- Department of Environmental Sciences, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Mysuru, 570015, India
- Center for Water, Food and Energy, GREENS Trust, Harikaranahalli, Dombaranahalli Post, Tumkur District, 572215, Turuvekere Taluka, Karnataka, India
| | - Yadav Sneha
- Department of Environmental Sciences, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Mysuru, 570015, India
- Center for Water, Food and Energy, GREENS Trust, Harikaranahalli, Dombaranahalli Post, Tumkur District, 572215, Turuvekere Taluka, Karnataka, India
| | | | - Sami Rtimi
- Global Institute for Water, Environment and Health, Rue de Chantepoulet 10, Geneve, Switzerland
| | - Kitirote Wantala
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Harikaranahalli Puttaiah Shivaraju
- Department of Environmental Sciences, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Mysuru, 570015, India.
- Center for Water, Food and Energy, GREENS Trust, Harikaranahalli, Dombaranahalli Post, Tumkur District, 572215, Turuvekere Taluka, Karnataka, India.
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30
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Liu W, Guo K, Xie Y, Liu S, Chen L, Xu J. High efficiency carbon nanotubes-based single-atom catalysts for nitrogen reduction. Sci Rep 2023; 13:9926. [PMID: 37336942 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-36945-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Carbon-based single-atom catalysts (SACs) for electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) have received increasing attention due to their sustainable, efficient, and green advantages. However, at present, the research on carbon nanotubes (CNTs)-based NRR catalysts is very limited. In this paper, using FeN3@(n, 0) CNTs (n = 3 ~ 10) as the representative catalysts, we demonstrate that the CNT curvatures will affect the spin polarization of the catalytic active centers, the activation of the adsorbed N2 molecules and the Gibbs free energy barriers for the formation of the critical intermediates in the NRR processes, thus changing the catalytic performance of CNT-based catalysts. Zigzag (8, 0) CNT was taken as the optimal substrate, and twenty transition metal atoms (Sc, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Nb, Mo, Tc, Ru, Rh, Pd, W, Re, Ir, and Pt) were embedded into (8, 0) CNT via N3 group to construct the NRR catalysts. Their electrocatalytic performance for NRR were examined using DFT calculations, and TcN3@(8, 0) CNT was screened out as the best candidate with a low onset potential of - 0.53 V via the distal mechanism, which is superior to the molecules- or graphene-support Tc catalysts. Further electronic properties analysis shows that the high NRR performance of TcN3@(8, 0) CNT originates from the strong d-2π* interaction between the N2 molecule and Tc atom. TcN3@(8, 0) CNT also exhibits higher selectivity for NRR than the competing hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) process. The present work not only provides a promising catalyst for NRR, but also open up opportunities for further exploring of low-dimensional carbon-based high efficiency electrochemical NRR catalysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Liu
- College of Optical, Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, 311300, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Kai Guo
- College of Optical, Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, 311300, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Yunhao Xie
- College of Optical, Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, 311300, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Sitong Liu
- College of Optical, Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, 311300, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Liang Chen
- College of Optical, Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, 311300, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
- School of Physical Science and Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Xu
- College of Optical, Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, 311300, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China.
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31
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Ma R, Weng X, Lin L, Zhao J, Wei F, Lin S. Role of Peripheral Coordination Boron in Electrocatalytic Nitrogen Reduction over N-Doped Graphene-Supported Single-Atom Catalysts. Molecules 2023; 28:4597. [PMID: 37375152 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28124597] [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: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 06/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
In this work, we investigate the effect of peripheral B doping on the electrocatalytic nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) performance of N-doped graphene-supported single-metal atoms using density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Our results showed that the peripheral coordination of B atoms could improve the stability of the single-atom catalysts (SACs) and weaken the binding of nitrogen to the central atom. Interestingly, it was found that there was a linear correlation between the change in the magnetic moment (μ) of single-metal atoms and the change in the limiting potential (UL) of the optimum NRR pathway before and after B doping. It was also found that the introduction of the B atom suppressed the hydrogen evolution reaction, thereby enhancing the NRR selectivity of the SACs. This work provides useful insights into the design of efficient SACs for electrocatalytic NRR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruijie Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Photocatalysis on Energy and Environment, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Xintong Weng
- State Key Laboratory of Photocatalysis on Energy and Environment, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Linghui Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Photocatalysis on Energy and Environment, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Jia Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Photocatalysis on Energy and Environment, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Fenfei Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Photocatalysis on Energy and Environment, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Sen Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Photocatalysis on Energy and Environment, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350002, China
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32
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Yang X, An P, Wang R, Jia J. Tuning the Site-to-Site Interaction of Heteronuclear Diatom Catalysts MoTM/C 2N (TM = 3d Transition Metal) for Electrochemical Ammonia Synthesis. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28104003. [PMID: 37241745 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28104003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Ammonia (NH3) synthesis is one of the most important catalytic reactions in energy and chemical fertilizer production, which is of great significance to the sustainable development of society and the economy. The electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction (eNRR), especially when driven by renewable energy, is generally regarded as an energy-efficient and sustainable process to synthesize NH3 in ambient conditions. However, the performance of the electrocatalyst is far below expectations, with the lack of a high-efficiency catalyst being the main obstacle. Herein, by means of comprehensive spin-polarized density functional theory (DFT) computations, the catalytic performance of MoTM/C2N (TM = 3d transition metal) for use in eNRR was systematically evaluated. Among the results, MoFe/C2N can be considered the most promising catalyst due to its having the lowest limiting potential (-0.26 V) and high selectivity in the context of eNRR. Compared with its homonuclear counterparts, MoMo/C2N and FeFe/C2N, MoFe/C2N can balance the first protonation step and the sixth protonation step synergistically, showing outstanding activity regarding eNRR. Our work not only opens a new door to advancing sustainable NH3 production by tailoring the active sites of heteronuclear diatom catalysts but also promotes the design and production of novel low-cost and efficient nanocatalysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoli Yang
- Key Laboratory of Magnetic Molecules and Magnetic Information Materials (Ministry of Education), School of Chemistry and Material Science, Shanxi Normal University, Taiyuan 030031, China
- Department of Pharmacy, Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi 046000, China
| | - Ping An
- Key Laboratory of Magnetic Molecules and Magnetic Information Materials (Ministry of Education), School of Chemistry and Material Science, Shanxi Normal University, Taiyuan 030031, China
| | - Ruiying Wang
- Key Laboratory of Magnetic Molecules and Magnetic Information Materials (Ministry of Education), School of Chemistry and Material Science, Shanxi Normal University, Taiyuan 030031, China
| | - Jianfeng Jia
- Key Laboratory of Magnetic Molecules and Magnetic Information Materials (Ministry of Education), School of Chemistry and Material Science, Shanxi Normal University, Taiyuan 030031, China
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33
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Hu L, Liu K, Guo Y, Feng J, Ding X, Li W, Su X, Gao M, Li Z, Zhang H, Ren Y, Wei T. Oxygen vacancies-rich Cu-W 18O 49 nanorods supported on reduced graphene oxide for electrochemical reduction ofN 2to NH 3. J Colloid Interface Sci 2023; 644:285-294. [PMID: 37120877 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2023.04.113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
High-performance nitrogen fixation is severely limited by the efficiency and selectivity of a catalyst of electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) under ambient conditions. Here, the RGO/WOCu (reduced graphene oxide and Cu-doping W18O49) composite catalysts with abundant oxygen vacancies are prepared by the hydrothermal method. The obtained RGO/WOCu achieves an enhanced NRR performance (NH3 yield rate:11.4 μg h-1 mgcat-1, Faradaic efficiency: 4.4%) at -0.6 V (vs. RHE) in 0.1 mol L-1 Na2SO4 solution. Furthermore, the NRR performance of the RGO/WOCu still keeps at 95% after four cycles, demonstrating its excellent stability. The Cu+-doping increases the concentration of oxygen vacancies, which is conducive to the adsorption and activation of N2. Meanwhile, the introduction of RGO further improves the electrical conductivity and reaction kinetics of the RGO/WOCu due to the high specific surface area and conductivity. This work provides a simple and effective method for efficient electrochemical reduction ofN2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liangqing Hu
- Key Laboratory of Superlight Materials & Surface Technology of Ministry of Education, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin 150001, PR China
| | - Kening Liu
- Key Laboratory of Superlight Materials & Surface Technology of Ministry of Education, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin 150001, PR China
| | - Yanming Guo
- Key Laboratory of Superlight Materials & Surface Technology of Ministry of Education, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin 150001, PR China
| | - Jing Feng
- Key Laboratory of Superlight Materials & Surface Technology of Ministry of Education, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin 150001, PR China.
| | - Xuejiao Ding
- Key Laboratory of Superlight Materials & Surface Technology of Ministry of Education, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin 150001, PR China
| | - Weixia Li
- Key Laboratory of Superlight Materials & Surface Technology of Ministry of Education, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin 150001, PR China
| | - Xiaojiang Su
- Key Laboratory of Superlight Materials & Surface Technology of Ministry of Education, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin 150001, PR China
| | - Mingming Gao
- Key Laboratory of Superlight Materials & Surface Technology of Ministry of Education, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin 150001, PR China
| | - Zhiyong Li
- Key Laboratory of Superlight Materials & Surface Technology of Ministry of Education, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin 150001, PR China
| | - Hexin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Superlight Materials & Surface Technology of Ministry of Education, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin 150001, PR China
| | - Yueming Ren
- Key Laboratory of Superlight Materials & Surface Technology of Ministry of Education, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin 150001, PR China
| | - Tong Wei
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao 266580, PR China.
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34
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Chai H, Chen W, Feng Z, Li Y, Zhao M, Shi J, Tang Y, Dai X. Single-Atom Anchored g-C 3N 4 Monolayer as Efficient Catalysts for Nitrogen Reduction Reaction. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 13:1433. [PMID: 37111017 PMCID: PMC10142710 DOI: 10.3390/nano13081433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Electrochemical N2 reduction reaction (NRR) is a promising approach for NH3 production under mild conditions. Herein, the catalytic performance of 3d transition metal (TM) atoms anchored on s-triazine-based g-C3N4 (TM@g-C3N4) in NRR is systematically investigated by density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Among these TM@g-C3N4 systems, the V@g-C3N4, Cr@g-C3N4, Mn@g-C3N4, Fe@g-C3N4, and Co@g-C3N4 monolayers have lower ΔG(*NNH) values, especially the V@g-C3N4 monolayer has the lowest limiting potential of -0.60 V and the corresponding limiting-potential steps are *N2+H++e-=*NNH for both alternating and distal mechanisms. For V@g-C3N4, the transferred charge and spin moment contributed by the anchored V atom activate N2 molecule. The metal conductivity of V@g-C3N4 provides an effective guarantee for charge transfer between adsorbates and V atom during N2 reduction reaction. After N2 adsorption, the p-d orbital hybridization of *N2 and V atoms can provide or receive electrons for the intermediate products, which makes the reduction process follow acceptance-donation mechanism. The results provide an important reference to design high efficiency single atom catalysts (SACs) for N2 reduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huadou Chai
- School of Physics, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China;
- College of Physics and Electronic Engineering, Zhengzhou Normal University, Zhengzhou 450044, China
| | - Weiguang Chen
- College of Physics and Electronic Engineering, Zhengzhou Normal University, Zhengzhou 450044, China
| | - Zhen Feng
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Henan Institute of Technology, Xinxiang 453000, China
| | - Yi Li
- College of Physics and Electronic Engineering, Zhengzhou Normal University, Zhengzhou 450044, China
| | - Mingyu Zhao
- College of Physics and Electronic Engineering, Zhengzhou Normal University, Zhengzhou 450044, China
| | - Jinlei Shi
- College of Physics and Electronic Engineering, Zhengzhou Normal University, Zhengzhou 450044, China
| | - Yanan Tang
- College of Physics and Electronic Engineering, Zhengzhou Normal University, Zhengzhou 450044, China
| | - Xianqi Dai
- School of Physics, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang 453007, China;
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35
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Sathishkumar N, Chen HT. Regulating the Coordination Environment of Single-Atom Catalysts Anchored on Thiophene Linked Porphyrin for an Efficient Nitrogen Reduction Reaction. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:15545-15560. [PMID: 36931875 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c00559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) offers a promising strategy to resolve high energy consumption in the nitrogen industry. Recently, the regulation of the electronic structure of single-atom catalysts (SACs) by adjusting their coordination environment has emerged as a rather promising strategy to further enhance their electrocatalytic activity. Herein, we design novel SACs supported by thiophene-linked porphyrin (TM-N4/TP and TM-N4-xBx/TP, where TM = Sc to Au) as potential NRR catalysts using density functional theory calculations. Among these catalysts, TM-N4/TP (TM = Ti, Nb, Mo, Ta, W, and Re) and TM-N4/TP with a water bilayer (TM = Nb, Mo, W, and Re) show excellent activity (low limiting potential) but low selectivity. Encouragingly, we find that Mo-N3B/TP, Mo-N2B2-2/TP, W-N3B/TP, W-N2B2-2/TP, Re-N3B/TP, Re-N2B2-2/TP, and Re-N2B2-1/TP serve as the most efficient NRR electrocatalysts, as they present stability, superior activity, better selectivity with low limiting potentials (-0.18 ∼ -0.90 V), and high Faradaic efficiencies (>99.80%). Based on microkinetic modeling, kinetic analysis of the NRR is performed and shows that the Re-N2B2-1/TP catalyst is more efficient for NH3 formation. Additionally, multiple-level descriptors provide insight into the origin of NRR activity and enable fast prescreening among numerous candidates. This work provides a new perspective to design highly efficient catalysts for the NRR under ambient conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadaraj Sathishkumar
- Department of Chemistry, R&D Center for Membrane Technology, and Research Center for Semiconductor Materials and Advanced Optics, Chung Yuan Christian University, Chungli District, Taoyuan City 320314, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Tsung Chen
- Department of Chemistry, R&D Center for Membrane Technology, and Research Center for Semiconductor Materials and Advanced Optics, Chung Yuan Christian University, Chungli District, Taoyuan City 320314, Taiwan
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36
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Emre Genç A, Küçük H, Akça A. Activation of NO
2
by Modifying the Porphyrin Unit with Oxygen in a MnN
4
Graphene Layer. ChemistrySelect 2023. [DOI: 10.1002/slct.202204305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
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37
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Wu S, Liu H, Qu M, Du A, Fan J, Sun Q. The important role of surface charge on a new mechanism of nitrogen reduction. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2023; 25:7986-7993. [PMID: 36866807 DOI: 10.1039/d2cp05485j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
The electrocatalytic nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) is a green and sustainable approach for producing ammonia. Low-cost carbon-based materials are promising catalysts for the electrochemical NRR. Among them, Cu-N4-graphene is a unique catalytic substrate. Its catalytic performance for the NRR has remained unclear as N2 can only be physisorbed on such a substrate. In this work, we focus on the influence of an electronic environment on the electrocatalytic NRR. DFT computations reveal that the NN bond can be effectively activated at a surface charge density of -1.88 × 1014 e cm-2 on Cu-N4-graphene and further the NRR proceeds via an alternating hydrogenation pathway. This work offers a new insight into the mechanism of the electrocatalytic NRR and emphasizes the importance of environmental charges in the electrocatalytic process of the NRR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Collaborative Innovation Centre of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China. .,College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, People's Republic of China.
| | - Huijie Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Collaborative Innovation Centre of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China.
| | - Mengnan Qu
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Collaborative Innovation Centre of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China.
| | - Aijun Du
- School of Chemistry, Physics and Mechanical Engineering, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4001, Australia
| | - Jianfen Fan
- College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, People's Republic of China.
| | - Qiao Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Collaborative Innovation Centre of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China.
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38
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Das A, Das S, Pathak B. Importance of Adatom on Pure Iron Catalyst Towards Electrocatalytic N 2 Reduction Reaction. Chem Asian J 2023; 18:e202300075. [PMID: 36908220 DOI: 10.1002/asia.202300075] [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: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
The Haber-Bosch process using Fe-based catalysts is still the predominant technique for ammonia production despite tough reaction conditions and high energy consumption. In the present work, we have investigated iron adatom on the (110) surface of pure iron catalyst towards the electrocatalytic N2 reduction reaction (NRR) activity using density function theory (DFT) calculations. We demonstrate that the presence of adatom over the iron catalyst favours the NRR via alternating associative mechanistic pathway through a barrierless rate determining step (*NNH formation). Besides, the adatom-based catalyst requires lower working potential than the previously reported Fe(110) surface and Fe-nanocluster based catalysts. These findings may open a scope in terms of scrutinizing the atomicity effects over catalyst surface for various catalytic reactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arunendu Das
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Indore, Indore, 453552, India
| | - Sandeep Das
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Indore, Indore, 453552, India
| | - Biswarup Pathak
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Indore, Indore, 453552, India
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39
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Huang Z, Rafiq M, Woldu AR, Tong QX, Astruc D, Hu L. Recent progress in electrocatalytic nitrogen reduction to ammonia (NRR). Coord Chem Rev 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ccr.2022.214981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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40
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Density functional study on electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide to C1 products using zinc oxide catalyst. Theor Chem Acc 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s00214-023-02971-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/13/2023]
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41
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Huang Y, Zhu C, Liao J, Gu XK, Li WX. First-principles study of the effect of the local coordination environment on the electrochemical activity of Pd1-CxNy single atom catalysts. Chem Eng Sci 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ces.2023.118551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
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42
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Bai H, Feng J, Liu D, Zhou P, Wu R, Kwok CT, Ip WF, Feng W, Sui X, Liu H, Pan H. Advances in Spin Catalysts for Oxygen Evolution and Reduction Reactions. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2205638. [PMID: 36417556 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202205638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Searching for high effective catalysts has been an endless effort to improve the efficiency of green energy harvesting and degradation of pollutants. In the past decades, tremendous strategies are explored to achieve high effective catalysts, and various theoretical understandings are proposed for the improved activity. As the catalytic reaction occurs at the surface or edge, the unsaturated ions may lead to the fluctuation of spin. Meanwhile, transition metals in catalysts have diverse spin states and may yield the spin effects. Therefore, the role of spin or magnetic moment should be carefully examined. In this review, the recent development of spin catalysts is discussed to give an insightful view on the origins for the improved catalytic activity. First, a brief introduction on the applications and advances in spin-related catalytic phenomena, is given, and then the fundamental principles of spin catalysts and magnetic fields-radical reactions are introduced in the second part. The spin-related catalytic performance reported in oxygen evolution/reduction reaction (OER/ORR) is systematically discussed in the third part, and general rules are summarized accordingly. Finally, the challenges and perspectives are given. This review may provide an insightful understanding of the microscopic mechanisms of catalytic phenomena and guide the design of spin-related catalysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haoyun Bai
- Institute of Applied Physics and Materials Engineering, University of Macau, Macao SAR, 999078, P.R. China
| | - Jinxian Feng
- Institute of Applied Physics and Materials Engineering, University of Macau, Macao SAR, 999078, P.R. China
| | - Di Liu
- Institute of Applied Physics and Materials Engineering, University of Macau, Macao SAR, 999078, P.R. China
| | - Pengfei Zhou
- Institute of Applied Physics and Materials Engineering, University of Macau, Macao SAR, 999078, P.R. China
| | - Rucheng Wu
- Institute of Applied Physics and Materials Engineering, University of Macau, Macao SAR, 999078, P.R. China
| | - Chi Tat Kwok
- Department of Electromechanical Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Macau, Macao SAR, 999078, P. R. China
| | - Weng Fai Ip
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Macau, Macao SAR, 999078, P. R. China
| | - Wenlin Feng
- School of Science, Chongqing University of Technology, Chongqing, 400054, China
| | - Xulei Sui
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Special Functional Materials, Shenzhen Engineering Laboratory for Advance Technology of Ceramics, Guangdong Research Center for Interfacial Engineering of Functional Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, P. R. China
| | - Hongchao Liu
- Institute of Applied Physics and Materials Engineering, University of Macau, Macao SAR, 999078, P.R. China
| | - Hui Pan
- Institute of Applied Physics and Materials Engineering, University of Macau, Macao SAR, 999078, P.R. China
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Macau, Macao SAR, 999078, P. R. China
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43
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Chen S, Gao Y, Wang W, Prezhdo OV, Xu L. Prediction of Three-Metal Cluster Catalysts on Two-Dimensional W 2N 3 Support with Integrated Descriptors for Electrocatalytic Nitrogen Reduction. ACS NANO 2023; 17:1522-1532. [PMID: 36606598 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.2c10607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
In the electrocatalytic nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR), nitrogen (N2) is chemically inert, it is difficult to break the triple bond, and the subsequent protonation step is very challenging. Suitable catalysts with high selectivity and high activity are needed to promote the electrocatalytic NRR. We screen a large number of clusters composed of three metal atoms embedded into a two-dimensional metal nitride, W2N3, with a N vacancy, and calculate the reaction energetics. The VNiCu cluster has the best catalytic activity among all the catalysts proposed so far. The Fe3 and Fe2Co clusters are excellent catalysts as well. In all cases, spin polarization is needed to observe the catalytic effect. We establish the optimal NRR path and confirm that it remains unchanged in the presence of a solvent. We find three groups of descriptors that can well predict the materials' properties and exhibit linear relationships with the NRR limiting potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyu Chen
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Joint International Research Laboratory of Carbon-Based Functional Materials and Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123Jiangsu, P.R. China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123Jiangsu, P.R. China
| | - Yongqi Gao
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Joint International Research Laboratory of Carbon-Based Functional Materials and Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123Jiangsu, P.R. China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123Jiangsu, P.R. China
| | - Wugang Wang
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Joint International Research Laboratory of Carbon-Based Functional Materials and Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123Jiangsu, P.R. China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123Jiangsu, P.R. China
| | - Oleg V Prezhdo
- Department of Chemistry, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California90089, United States
| | - Lai Xu
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Joint International Research Laboratory of Carbon-Based Functional Materials and Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123Jiangsu, P.R. China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123Jiangsu, P.R. China
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44
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Recent Progress in Pd based Electrocatalysts for Electrochemical Nitrogen Reduction to Ammonia. J Electroanal Chem (Lausanne) 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jelechem.2023.117174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
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45
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Spin regulation for efficient electrocatalytic N2 reduction over diatomic Fe-Mo catalyst. J Colloid Interface Sci 2023; 630:215-223. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2022.10.099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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46
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Luo Y, Chen K, Shen P, Li X, Li X, Li Y, Chu K. B-doped MoS2 for nitrate electroreduction to ammonia. J Colloid Interface Sci 2023; 629:950-957. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2022.09.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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47
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Ghoshal S, Ghosh A, Roy P, Ball B, Pramanik A, Sarkar P. Recent Progress in Computational Design of Single-Atom/Cluster Catalysts for Electrochemical and Solar-Driven N 2 Fixation. ACS Catal 2022. [DOI: 10.1021/acscatal.2c04527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sourav Ghoshal
- Department of Chemistry, Visva-Bharati University, Santiniketan731 235, India
| | - Atish Ghosh
- Department of Chemistry, Visva-Bharati University, Santiniketan731 235, India
| | - Prodyut Roy
- Department of Chemistry, Visva-Bharati University, Santiniketan731 235, India
| | - Biswajit Ball
- Department of Chemistry, Visva-Bharati University, Santiniketan731 235, India
| | - Anup Pramanik
- Department of Chemistry, Sidho-Kanho-Birsha University, Purulia723 104, India
| | - Pranab Sarkar
- Department of Chemistry, Visva-Bharati University, Santiniketan731 235, India
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48
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Lin L, Pang D, Shi P, Xie K, Su L, Zhang Z. First-principles study of TM supported SnSe2 monolayer as an efficient electrocatalyst for NOER. MOLECULAR CATALYSIS 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mcat.2022.112789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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49
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Cui C, Zhang H, Cheng R, Huang B, Luo Z. On the Nature of Three-Atom Metal Cluster Catalysis for N 2 Reduction to Ammonia. ACS Catal 2022. [DOI: 10.1021/acscatal.2c04146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Chaonan Cui
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences (BNLMS), State Key Laboratory for Structural Chemistry of Unstable and Stable Species, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing100190, China
| | - Hongchao Zhang
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences (BNLMS), State Key Laboratory for Structural Chemistry of Unstable and Stable Species, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing100190, China
| | - Ran Cheng
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences (BNLMS), State Key Laboratory for Structural Chemistry of Unstable and Stable Species, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing100190, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing100049, China
| | - Benben Huang
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences (BNLMS), State Key Laboratory for Structural Chemistry of Unstable and Stable Species, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing100190, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing100049, China
| | - Zhixun Luo
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences (BNLMS), State Key Laboratory for Structural Chemistry of Unstable and Stable Species, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing100190, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing100049, China
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50
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Yuan S, Meng G, Liu D, Zhao W, Zhu H, Chi Y, Ren H, Guo W. Synergy of Substrate Chemical Environments and Single-Atom Catalysts Promotes Catalytic Performance: Nitrogen Reduction on Chiral and Defected Carbon Nanotubes. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:52544-52552. [PMID: 36367754 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c17280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The catalytic activities of single-atom catalysts (SACs) are strongly influenced by the local chemical environments of their substrates, by which the electronic structures of the SACs can be effectively tuned. Together with the freedom of available reactive metallic centers, it would be feasible to maximize the catalytic performance by means of a synergetic optimization in the chemical space spanned by the features of both the substrate and the catalytic center. In this work, using first-principles calculations, we systematically assessed the synergetic effect between the substrate geometric/electronic structures and the catalytic centers on the electrocatalytic nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR). Carbon nanotubes with different chirality, defects, and chemical functionalization were used to support 15 transition metal atoms. Three SACs, TiN4CNT(3,3), TiN4CNT(5,5), and VN4CNT(3,3), simultaneously possess high NRR selectivities (w.r.t hydrogen evolution) and low overpotentials of 0.35, 0.35, and 0.37 V, respectively. Electronic structure analysis elucidated that larger metal atoms anchored on CNTs with higher curvature and doped by N atoms facilitate the rupture of the N-N bond in *NH2NH2 to lower the overpotentials. The synergy of substrate chemical environments and single atomic catalysis is a promising strategy to optimize the catalytic performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saifei Yuan
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao266580, Shandong, China
| | - Guodong Meng
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao266580, Shandong, China
| | - Dongyuan Liu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao266580, Shandong, China
| | - Wen Zhao
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao266580, Shandong, China
| | - Houyu Zhu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao266580, Shandong, China
| | - Yuhua Chi
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao266580, Shandong, China
| | - Hao Ren
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao266580, Shandong, China
| | - Wenyue Guo
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao266580, Shandong, China
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