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

The development of earth-abundant and non-noble based metal catalysts for electrochemical nitrogen reduction towards sustainable ammonia production from N-2 and H2O in the ambient atmosphere holds immense potential in realizing an alternate route to energy-intensive Haber-Bosch process. Herein, we have employed highly conductive MoO2 synthesized by hydrothermal route as an electrocatalyst for ammonia generation. The MoO2 catalyst was employed for electrochemical nitrogen reduction in N-2 saturated 0.1 m HCl electrolyte in a two-compartment cell. Ammonia yield rate of 2.30 mu g h(-1) mg(cat)(-1) and 2.40 % Faradaic efficiency has been obtained at a potential of -0.3 V vs. RHE. The MoO2 catalyst is selective for ammonia generation without any hydrazine formation. The metallic nature of MoO2 catalyst assists in achieving comparable activity for the electrochemical nitrogen reduction. The above catalyst has the potential for providing better ammonia yield rate by combining or doping with other active elements.

Automated summary

Using highly conductive MoO2 as an electrocatalyst, electrochemical nitrogen reduction for ammonia production was achieved with a yield rate of 2.30 μg h(-1) mg(cat)(-1) and 2.40% Faradaic efficiency. The MoO2 catalyst exhibited selective ammonia generation without hydrazine formation. Its metallic nature contributed to comparable activity for electrochemical nitrogen reduction. The catalyst has the potential for further improvement through combination or doping with other active elements.