Abstract
As an environmentally-benign and sustainable option for NH3 synthesis, the electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) is expected to replace the traditional Haber-Bosch process. Transition metals with empty d-orbitals achieve NRR activity via a "π back-donation"process. However, the problem in overcoming hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) competition makes the exploration of transition metal-based catalysts with relatively inferior HER activity worthwhile. The challenges lie in designing a rational structure for efficient NRR. Herein, Ni3+ and oxygen vacancies were synergistically integrated on NiO@TiO2 by magnetron sputtering, which provide this transition-metal oxide-based (TMO-based) material with "π back-donation"behavior. Accordingly, NiO@TiO2 exhibited NH3 yield (∼10.75 μg h-1 cmcat.-2) and faradaic efficiency (∼9.83%), which are nearly 10-fold higher relative to those of TiO2 in neutral media. This work provides an efficient strategy for engineering "π back-donation"sites, and holds great potential in exploring new TMO-based electrocatalysts.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 2800-2806 |
Number of pages | 7 |
Journal | JOURNAL OF MATERIALS CHEMISTRY A |
Volume | 10 |
Issue number | 6 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Feb 14 2022 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Chemistry
- Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment
- General Materials Science