Citation

Jumadi, Juliana and Ibrahim, Ihsan Naiman and Kadirgama, Kumaran and Samylingam, Lingenthiran and Aslfattahi, Navid and Fazli Md Fauadi, Muhammad Hafidz and Wan Harun, Wan Sharuzi (2026) A Review on Preparation, Characterization, and Performance of Cu-Based Electrodes for Nitrogen/Nitrate Reduction Reaction. Electrocatalysis. ISSN 1868-2529

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Abstract

The removal of nitrogen species, particularly nitrates, is critically important for environmental remediation and the production of renewable energy. Converting nitrogen in wastewater into ammonia is an alternative to the Haber-Bosch process, which constitutes an effective and economical method for addressing nitrate contamination in source waters. This process simultaneously facilitates the reclamation of nitrogen as a renewable and promising energy resource. This approach not only decreases dependence on energy-consuming procedures but is also environmentally friendly. Copper-based electrocatalysts for the nitrogen/nitrate reduction reaction (NRR) have been widely studied, yet a comprehensive understanding of the relationships between their preparation, characterization, and catalytic activity remains incomplete. In this review, we aim to provide a structured summary of synthetic approaches for Cu-based electrodes using both physical and chemical methods, highlighting the structure–activity correlations between synthesis strategies and catalyst performance. We also present a thorough overview of advanced characterization techniques, including structural, morphological, compositional, electrochemical, and in situ/operando studies, to identify active sites, reaction intermediates, and degradation pathways. The electrocatalytic performance of Cu-based electrodes in NRR is critically analyzed and compared, with emphasis on the effects of morphology, surface composition, electrolyte selection, and pH on activity and selectivity. Methods for quantifying ammonia, such as colorimetry, NMR, GC, and ion chromatography, are reviewed to ensure benchmarking and reproducibility. Despite these advances, practical application remains limited due to challenges such as the trade-off between selectivity and activity, catalytic deactivation, and competition from the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). This work aims to provide a consistent and rational framework for screening Cu-based systems toward highly efficient and cost-effective ammonia electrosynthesis.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Cu-based electrodes, Nitrogen reduction reaction, Nitrate reduction reaction, Electrochemical, Environmental remediation
Subjects:	T Technology > TK Electrical engineering. Electronics Nuclear engineering > TK452-454.4 Electric apparatus and materials. Electric circuits. Electric networks
Divisions:	Faculty of Engineering and Technology (FET)
Depositing User:	Ms Suzilawati Abu Samah
Date Deposited:	04 Jun 2026 03:53
Last Modified:	04 Jun 2026 03:53
URII:	http://shdl.mmu.edu.my/id/eprint/15920

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