Revolutionizing nitrogen and carbon dioxide fixation through advanced electrocatalytic strategies

Abstract

Rising greenhouse gas emissions, particularly CO₂ and N₂O from industrial and agricultural activities, have disrupted natural cycles. They have intensified global warming and extreme weather conditions as emphasized by the 2015 Paris Climate Conference. Electrocatalytic reduction of N₂ and CO₂ offers a sustainable solution by converting these gases into valuable products using renewable energy. This review provides a unique integration of both topics and conducts a statistical analysis of catalysts reported since 2024. It concentrates on advancements in achieving higher yields, improved efficiency, and enhanced stability. Moreover, the underlying mechanisms facilitating these transformations are detailed. It underscores the significance of the incorporation of metal oxides to a composite catalyst fabrication, which introduces oxygen vacancies or oxygen bonds, thereby improving the adsorption and activation of N₂ and CO₂ molecules. Additionally, the study classifies various metal oxide-based composites, demonstrating their high stability and Faradaic efficiency. This review presents a new perspective to establish the potential of electrocatalytic reduction in achieving artificial nitrogen fixation and artificial carbon fixation, which align with sustainable environmental practices such as carbon capture and utilization (CCU). Furthermore, it offers insights into the development of innovative electrocatalysts, addressing challenges and exploring opportunities for industrial applications.