New catalysts convert nitrate pollutants into ammonia via electrochemistry

Researchers developed new catalysts using ultra-dispersed metal oxide nanoparticles on graphitic carbon nitride that can convert nitrate pollutants into ammonia through an electrochemical process, offering a greener alternative to the energy-intensive Haber-Bosch method. The study tested three oxide combinations, with copper ferrite on carbon nitride performing best, achieving 21% Faradaic efficiency toward ammonium production at -1.15 V versus the reversible hydrogen electrode, while also reducing harmful nitrite byproducts. The carbon nitride scaffold provided strong electronic coupling and electron donation to the oxide particles. This approach addresses two environmental challenges simultaneously: reducing nitrate water pollution while producing ammonia for agriculture without the high carbon emissions of traditional synthesis, which contributes roughly 2% of global carbon dioxide emissions.