MoS2‐Based Catalysts for N2 Electroreduction to NH3 – An Overview of MoS2 Optimization Strategies

Abstract

Abstract The nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) has become an ideal alternative to the Haber‐Bosch process, as NRR possesses, among others, the advantage of operating under ambient conditions and saving energy consumption. The key to efficient NRR is to find a suitable electrocatalyst, which helps to break the strong N≡N bond and improves the reaction selectivity. Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) as an emerging layered two‐dimensional material has attracted a mass of attention in various fields. In this minireview, we summarize the optimization strategies of MoS2‐based catalysts which have been developed to improve the weak NRR activity of primitive MoS2. Some theoretical predictions have also been summarized, which can provide direction for optimizing NRR activity of future MoS2‐based materials. Finally, an outlook about the optimization of MoS2‐based catalysts used in electrochemical N2 fixation are given.

Keywords

• ambient NH3 synthesis
• electrocatalysis
• electrochemical N2 reduction reaction
• MoS2
• optimization strategies