Synergistic multisite CuPdP nanodendrites for efficient ambient neutral electrosynthesis of ammonia from nitrate

Electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction (NO3RR) is considered a promising alternate of the Haber–Bosch process for ammonia (NH3) synthesis, in which optimization of the catalyst composition and morphology is essential. Herein, Pd and P was simultaneously doped into Cu nanodendrites supported on Cu foam (CuPdP NDs/CF) by a one-step solvothermal reaction. The introduction of Pd atoms could improve the inert hydrogen adsorption capacity of Cu, while the presence of P atoms could effectively inhibit the competitive hydrogen evolution process. Additionally, the electron interaction between Cu, Pd and P could optimize the electronic structure of Cu and regulate the adsorption of reaction intermediates, and thus boosting the nitrate-to-ammonia capability. With the synergistic effect of multisites, the CuPdP NDs/CF showed excellent performance for NO3RR with an optimal ammonia Faradaic efficiency reaching 96.7%. This study provides an avenue for metal/nonmetal co-doping to synergistically enhance the performance of nitrate reduction to ammonia.