Next-generation nitrogen fixation strategy: empowering electrocatalysis with MXenes

Abstract

In recent years, the development of sustainable and cost-effective electrocatalysts for nitrogen (N2) fixation has garnered significant attention, leading to the introduction of next-generation materials with electrocatalytic properties. Among the most interesting types of these materials, MXenes and their composite forms with their unique properties like high electrochemical activity, large surface area, tunable properties, excellent electrical conductivity, chemical stability, and abundant transition metals have been widely explored. These properties make MXenes promising candidates for various electrochemical reactions, including water splitting, oxygen reduction, hydrogen evolution, N2 activation and reduction, among others. The interface of these materials could be engineered with other entities which can serve as a promising tool for sustainable production of ammonia (NH3) to address the global nitrogen-related challenges. Moreover, optimizing the interfaces between them and reactants is another way to achieve high catalytic activity, selectivity, and stability. Accordingly, this review aims to offer a comprehensive overview of the current state of research in the field of electrocatalytic N2 fixation deploying MXenes and their composites. The highlights comprise progress made in understanding the catalytic properties and unique performances of MXenes for N2 fixation, as well as challenges that persist in this context and the possible solutions that could be implemented to circumvent these challenges in the future. MXenes offer environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional N2 fixation methods via potential optimization of their catalytic activity and circumventing some synthesis challenges.