Work

Nonthermal Plasma–Enabled Cascade N 2 Activation and Electroreduction

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT The development of sustainable nitrogen fixation technologies operating under ambient conditions is critical for reducing the energy intensity and carbon footprint of high‐value nitrogen chemical production. This review covers an emerging cascade strategy that couples nonthermal plasma (NTP) activation of atmospheric N 2 with electrocatalytic reduction. We first discuss the fundamental mechanisms of plasma‐assisted N 2 activation, where plasma cleaves the stable N≡N triple bond to generate reactive NO x species with enhanced reactivity and aqueous solubility. Reactor design considerations‐including dielectric barrier discharge configurations, electrode materials, and operational parametersare analyzed with emphasis on maximizing NO x generation efficiency and absorption in liquid electrolytes. Recent progress in electrocatalytic NO x reduction has been comprehensively reviewed, covering catalyst design strategies and performance benchmarks for ammonia and urea synthesis. The integrated plasma‐electrocatalysis systems demonstrate promising results for ammonia and urea synthesis. However, significant challenges remain, including excessive energy consumption, insufficient catalyst stability, and a complex reactor structure that hinders commercial viability. Future directions encompass advanced reactor engineering for energy efficiency improvements, operando characterization for mechanistic understanding, rational catalyst design through computational‐experimental integration, and techno‐economic optimization. This plasma‐enabled cascade approach represents a promising modular pathway toward a decentralized, sustainable nitrogen chemical production from renewable resources.

Source: EcoEnergy

DOI: 10.1002/ece2.70109

Authors: Shijia Li, Wei Gao, Ziyun Wang

Institution: University of Auckland

Language: English

Topic: Ammonia Synthesis and Nitrogen Reduction

Subfield: Catalysis

Field: Chemical Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Affordable and clean energy, Climate action, Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: diamond

Funder: Marsden Fund