Metal-Organic Framework Materials for Production and Distribution of Ammonia

The efficient production of ammonia (NH3) from dinitrogen (N-2) and water (H2O) using renewable energy is an important step on the roadmap to the ammonia economy. The productivity of this conversion hinges on the design and development of new active catalysts. In the wide scope of materials that have been examined as catalysts for the photo-and electro-driven reduction of N-2 to NH3, functional metal-organic framework (MOF) catalysts exhibit unique properties and appealing features. By elucidating their structural and spectroscopic properties and linking this to the observed activity of MOF-based catalysts, valuable information can be gathered to inspire new generations of advanced catalysts to produce green NH3. NH3 is also a surrogate for the hydrogen (H-2) economy, and the potential application of MOFs for the practical and effective capture, safe storage, and transport of NH3 is also discussed. This Perspective analyzes the contribution that MOFs can make toward the ammonia economy.

Automated summary

Efficient production of ammonia from dinitrogen and water using renewable energy is crucial for the ammonia economy. Functional metal-organic framework (MOF) catalysts have unique properties and show promise in the reduction of N-2 to NH3. By understanding their structure and spectroscopic properties, new advanced catalysts can be developed to produce green NH3. The potential application of MOFs in the capture, storage, and transport of NH3 is also discussed.