Research Progress in Electrocatalytic Reduction of Nitric Acid to Ammonia by Nonmetallic Element Doped Catalysts

Abstract

The investigation of novel strategies for nitrate pollution reduction should be considered by its substantial environmental danger. The paper summarizes the research advances in electrocatalytic reduction of nitric acid to ammonia, emphasizing the utilization of nonmetallic element-doped catalysts. The concepts of catalyst construction are a key component explaining a variety of approaches including defect engineering, lattice replacement, substrate doping (nitrogen-doped carbon nanotubes, for example), and other creative approaches taken from recent research. The precise regulation of the nitrate electrocatalytic reduction process by these catalysts is examined in this work. The study delves into the regulation of particular phases, including adsorption, electron transport, and other significant elements, and includes specific evaluations for catalysts doped with phosphorus (P), sulphur (S), nitrogen (N), and boron (B). The information provided highlights the part that every component plays in attaining higher removal rates and selectivity when nitric acid is electrochemically converted to ammonia. These catalysts have the benefits of being inexpensive, safe for the environment, and having the potential to be used widely in the electrocatalytic reduction of nitric acid to create ammonia. To fully realize the potential of nonmetallic element-doped catalysts in this application, however, issues including low catalytic efficiency, competition with the hydrogen evolution reaction, and the need for a deeper comprehension of the reaction mechanisms must be resolved.