Recent Progress on 2D Transition Metal Compounds-based Electrocatalysts for Efficient Nitrogen Reduction

Ammonia is a commodity chemical with high added value. Electrochemical reduction of nitrogen has great promise for the sustainable synthesis of ammonia in recent years. Because of its rich resources and unique electronic structure and characteristics, 2D transition metal compounds have been used as electrocatalysts for electrochemical reduction of nitrogen for clean and sustainable production of ammonia. This review outlines the latest development in the use of 2D transition metal compounds as high-efficiency electrocatalysts for nitrogen reduction reaction(NRR). First, we introduce the N₂ reduction mechanism, and briefly summarize the performance indicators of the catalyst. Then, we focused on the functionalization of unique 2D materials to design high-performance 2D electrocatalysts in respect of simulation calculation and experimental development. Finally, the current challenges and future opportunities for NRR electrocatalysts are introduced.