Electrocatalysts for ammonia production and nitrogen cycle management in Zinc-NOx batteries: Progress, challenges, and future perspectives

Abstract

This review provides a comprehensive overview of the recent progress in zinc-NO_x (Zn-NO_x) chemistries, focusing on their basic reactions, detection methods for various products, and the development of high-performance electrocatalysts. The electrocatalysts for NO_x reduction in Zn-NO_x batteries are systematically discussed, highlighting their synthesis strategies, structure-activity relationships, and catalytic mechanisms. Key performance metrics, such as ammonia yield, Faradaic efficiency, and power density, are also compared for the most promising electrocatalysts in each category. As such, Zn-NO_x chemistries, where NO_x represents nitrate (NO₃⁻), nitrite (NO₂⁻), or nitric oxide (NO), have emerged as promising systems for electrochemical ammonia production, nitrogen cycle management, and energy storage. Converting NO_x waste into valuable ammonia is crucial for reducing environmental pollution and generating a useful product. Additionally, energy storage is essential for integrating renewable energy sources into the power grid, and Zn-NO_x batteries offer a unique solution to this challenge, paving the way for the practical implementation of Zn-NO_x batteries in sustainable ammonia production and energy storage. The novelty and significance of Zn-NO_x batteries lie in their ability to simultaneously address environmental concerns and energy storage needs, setting them apart from other existing technologies. With continued research efforts and innovations in electrocatalyst design and battery engineering, Zn-NO_x batteries hold great promise for contributing to a more sustainable and energy-efficient future.