Progress and Challenges in the Electrocatalytic Reduction of Nitrate to Ammonia

The escalating problem of nitrate pollution, coupled with the environmental burden of the Haber-Bosch process, has spurred intense interest in the electrocatalytic nitrate reduction reaction (eNO₃RR) as a sustainable route for simultaneous wastewater treatment and ammonia production. However, the efficiency and selectivity of eNO₃RR are hampered by the multi-step proton-coupled electron transfer process and the competing hydrogen evolution reaction. This review provides a comprehensive and critical overview of recent advances in understanding and designing catalysts for eNO₃RR. We begin by elucidating the fundamental mechanisms and key reaction pathways, followed by a discussion on how critical parameters (e.g., electrolyte microenvironment, applied potential, reactor design) dictate performance. Further discussion of recent advances in catalysts, including single-metal catalysts, alloy catalysts, transition metal compounds, single-atom catalysts, carbon-based non-metal catalysts, and composite catalysts, highlights their significant roles in enhancing both the efficiency and selectivity. A distinctive feature of this review is its consistent critical assessment of catalysts through the dual lenses of practicality and sustainable development. Finally, we outline prevailing challenges and propose future research directions aimed at developing scalable and commercially viable electrocatalytic systems for green nitrogen management.