Ambient N2-to-NH3 fixation over a CeO2 nanoparticle decorated three-dimensional carbon skeleton

Electrochemical N-2 reduction emerges as a promising substitute to the Haber-Bosch process for ambient NH3 synthesis, but it is a tough task to develop efficient catalysts. Here, we propose a CeO2 nanoparticle decorated three-dimensional carbon skeleton derived from Juncus as an active and stable electrocatalyst for N-2-to-NH3 conversion. In N-2-saturated 0.1 M Na2SO4, this nanohybrid attains a large NH3 yield of 33.4 mu g h(-1) mg(cat.)(-1) with a faradaic efficiency of 6.1% at -0.6 V vs. the reversible hydrogen electrode. Furthermore, it also possesses favorable durability.

Automated summary

In this study, a CeO2 nanoparticle decorated three-dimensional carbon skeleton derived from Juncus was proposed as an active and stable electrocatalyst for N-2-to-NH3 conversion. The nanohybrid showed a high NH3 yield and favorable durability.