Advancements in Bioelectrocatalysis for Electrochemical Ammonia Production: Integrating Enzyme-Based Catalysis

Abstract

Bioelectrocatalysis has advanced ammonia production by integrating enzyme-based processes into electrochemical methods, providing chemical manufacturers with a distinct alternative to the traditional Haber–Bosch process. The review discusses the latest developments in enzyme-based electrochemical catalysis that have been shown to enhance ammonia synthesis, efficiency, and sustainability. We also discuss the development of designed bioelectrocatalysts, including nitrogenase-inspired enzymes and engineered microbes, which enable the reduction of atmospheric nitrogen to ammonia under mild conditions. Also the study highlights the most recent e-BNF advancements, focusing on innovations that enhance efficiency and scalability. Nanomaterial integration simplifies ATP-independent nitrogen fixation, enhancing electron transfer and ammonia production under normal conditions, while also exploring its scalability and implications for green chemistry and industrial applications as a sustainable alternative to the Haber–Bosch process. Eventually, the study discusses the scalability of these technologies and their implications for green chemistry and industrial applications, providing a comprehensive overview of current advancements and future research directions.