Recent progress of iron-based electrocatalysts for nitrogen reduction reaction

Ammonia is a critical feedstock for modern industry and agriculture, which is also a promising carbon -free energy carrier. Electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction (ENRR) is a sustainable and efficient ap-proach to synthesize ammonia under ambient reaction conditions. ENRR relies on the development of highly efficient electrocatalysts. So far various strategies have been applied to enhance the performance of catalysts including tuning the electronic structure, binding strength, coordination configuration as well as the introduction of multiple active sites and defects. In this review, the recent progress of Fe-based electrocatalysts and their coordination effect, syner gistic effect and def ect effect for nitrogen reduction reaction have been summarized. Our critical review focuses on the discussion of theoretical advance-ment, the performance origin of ENRR activity and selectivity of Fe-based electrocatalysts.(c) 2022 Published by Elsevier Ltd on behalf of The editorial office of Journal of Materials Science & Technology.

Automated summary

This review summarizes the recent progress of Fe-based electrocatalysts and their coordination effect, synergistic effect, and defect effect for nitrogen reduction reaction. The discussion focuses on theoretical advancement, the performance origin of ENRR activity, and the selectivity of Fe-based electrocatalysts.