A Perspective on Cu‐Based Electrocatalysts for Nitrate Reduction for Ammonia Synthesis

Compared to the Haber–Bosch (H–B) process for ammonia synthesis with massive emission of greenhouse CO 2 and necessary harsh reaction conditions, the electrocatalytic NO 3 − reduction (NO 3 RR) for ammonia synthesis under ambient temperature and pressure driven by renewable electricity has attracted great attention. NO 3 RR is also a promising route to construct nitrogen cycles utilizing NO x produced from industrial and agricultural operations. Cu‐based catalyst is one of the most promising platforms for this reaction. This perspective shows the latest understanding and research advances on the NO 3 RR by Cu‐based electrocatalysts. Through a deep analysis on the rate‐limiting step of NO 3 RR, the strategies of overcoming the deactivation and enhancing the performance of Cu‐based catalysts are discussed. The great significance of synergistic NO x and H activation in promoting the key kinetic step of electrocatalytic NO 3 RR by single‐atom, oxide, bimetallic of Cu on the catalytic reaction site construction with tunable adsorption of N‐containing intermediate and active H is stressed. Also, future challenges and perspectives toward coupling reaction of nitrate reduction catalyzed by Cu‐based catalysts are proposed. This perspective can move forward the future research on electrocatalytic NO 3 RR to ammonia synthesis over advanced Cu‐based electrocatalysts.