Nanoporous CuAuPtPd Quasi-High-Entropy Alloy Prism Arrays for Sustainable Electrochemical Nitrogen Reduction

Electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) has emerged as a promising approach for sustainable ammonia synthesis under ambient conditions, offering a low-energy alternative to the traditional Haber–Bosch process. However, the development of efficient and sustainable electrocatalysts for NRR r...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Shuping Hou, Ziying Meng, Weimin Zhao, Zhifeng Wang
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2025-05-01
Series:Metals
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Online Access:https://www.mdpi.com/2075-4701/15/5/568
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Summary:Electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) has emerged as a promising approach for sustainable ammonia synthesis under ambient conditions, offering a low-energy alternative to the traditional Haber–Bosch process. However, the development of efficient and sustainable electrocatalysts for NRR remains a significant challenge. Noble metals, known for their exceptional chemical stability under electrocatalytic conditions, have garnered considerable attention in this field. In this study, we report the successful synthesis of nanoporous CuAuPtPd quasi-high-entropy alloy (quasi-HEA) prism arrays through “melt quenching” and “dealloying” techniques. The as-obtained alloy demonstrates remarkable performance as an NRR electrocatalyst, achieving an impressive ammonia synthesis rate of 17.5 μg h<sup>−1</sup> mg<sup>−1</sup> at a potential of −0.2 V vs. RHE, surpassing many previously reported NRR catalysts. This work not only highlights the potential of quasi-HEAs as advanced NRR electrocatalysts but also provides valuable insights into the design of nanoporous multicomponent materials for sustainable energy and catalytic applications.
ISSN:2075-4701