Structural design and control of photocatalytic nitrogen-fixing catalysts

The process of traditional synthetic nitrogen-fixing ammonia involves high energy consumption and is not environmentally friendly due to severe reaction conditions. Thus, it is very important to explore new approaches to synthesize ammonia under mild conditions. Photocatalytic nitrogen fixation is an innovative way to use solar energy as an energy source and complete the conversion of nitrogen to ammonia through photocatalysis at normal temperatures. In recent years, the development of highly efficient photocatalysts has become a hot topic. In this study, we mainly discuss the structure and design of photocatalytic nitrogen-fixing materials, such as introducing various vacancies on the catalyst surface, conducting element doping and constructing heterojunctions. This review will also briefly introduce the oxidation process of N-2 to nitrogen compounds to bring some inspiration for the research and development of nitrogen-fixing photocatalysts.

Automated summary

The traditional process of synthetic nitrogen-fixing ammonia is energy-consuming and environmentally unfriendly. Therefore, exploring new methods for ammonia synthesis under mild conditions is crucial. Photocatalytic nitrogen fixation utilizes solar energy as an energy source to convert nitrogen to ammonia through photocatalysis at normal temperatures. In recent years, the development of highly efficient photocatalysts has been a hot topic. This study mainly discusses the structure and design of photocatalytic nitrogen-fixing materials, such as introducing vacancies, conducting element doping, and constructing heterojunctions. The study also introduces the oxidation process of N-2 to nitrogen compounds, providing inspiration for the research and development of nitrogen-fixing photocatalysts.