Qiaorui Wang*, Dingyun Liang, Zhongwen Zhang, Yalan Yang, Yunran Zhang, Yirong Wang, Lei Liu, Wenfeng Jiang*, Muneerah Alomar, Li-Long Zhang*

Cite this article: Chin. J. Struct. Chem., 2025, 44(6), 100599. DOI: 10.1016/j.cjsc.2025.100599

Publication date: June 1, 2025

Keywords: Nitrogen; Single atom catalyst; Electrolyte; Reduction; Ammonia

ABSTRACT

The electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction (eNRR) presents a sustainable alternative to the energy-intensive Haber-Bosch process for ammonia (NH3) production. This review examines the fundamental principles of eNRR, emphasizing the critical roles of proton-exchange membranes and electrolytes in facilitating efficient nitrogen (N2) reduction. Special attention is given to single-atom catalysts (SACs), highlighting their unique structural and electronic properties that contribute to enhanced catalytic performance. The discussions encompass SACs based on precious metals, non-precious metals, and non-metallic materials, delving into their synthesis methods, coordination environments, and activity in the eNRR. This review also elucidates current challenges in the field and proposes future research directions aimed at optimizing SACs design to enhance eNRR efficiency.