Electrocatalytic, Homogeneous Ammonia Oxidation in Water to Nitrate and Nitrite with a Copper Complex

J Am Chem Soc. 2022 May 18;144(19):8449-8453. doi: 10.1021/jacs.2c01788. Epub 2022 May 10.

Abstract

Electrocatalytic ammonia oxidation at room temperature and pressure allows energy-economical and environmentally friendly production of nitrites and nitrates. Few molecular catalysts, however, have been developed for this six- or eight-electron oxidation process. We now report [Cu(bipyalk)]+, a homogeneous electrocatalyst that realizes the title reaction in water at 94% Faradaic efficiency. The catalyst exhibits high selectivity against water oxidation in aqueous media, as [Cu(bipyalk)]+ is not competent for water oxidation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Ammonia
  • Copper
  • Nitrates*
  • Nitrites*
  • Nitrogen Oxides
  • Oxidation-Reduction
  • Water

Substances

  • Nitrates
  • Nitrites
  • Nitrogen Oxides
  • Water
  • Ammonia
  • Copper