Publication date: 28th August 2024
The electrochemical reduction of nitrate (NO₃⁻) to ammonia (NH₃) offers a sustainable approach to minimize nitrate pollution while generating valuable chemicals. This study focuses on the functionality of copper-based catalysts, specifically Cu₃N, Cu₂O, CuO, and Cu₃P, in promoting this reaction. Utilizing 0.1 M phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) as the electrolyte, a systematic investigation of the performance and stability of these catalysts is conducted. It was revealed that Cu₃N’s surface was modified during catalysis to CuO. Post-catalysis characterizations were conducted to understand these transformations, revealing significant insights into the stability and activity of the oxidized forms. The findings indicate that Cu₂O and CuO exhibited comparable activity to Cu₃N after the oxidation process. Additionally, the relatively unexplored realm of transition-metal nitrides and phosphides presents a fertile ground for further research. The inclusion of Cu₃P highlighted its distinct potential in nitrate reduction applications, demonstrating greater activity in hydrogen evolution compared to the other copper species. The comprehensive evaluation of Cu₃N, Cu₂O, CuO, and Cu₃P provided a nuanced understanding of copper-based catalysts, laying the groundwork for future advancements in electrochemical nitrate reduction studies.