Electrocatalytic selective synthesis and tandem utilization of hydroxylamine
摘要
The transformation of renewable nitrogen feedstock to nitrogenous chemicals plays a significant role in our modern society, considering the crucial impact of nitrogenous chemicals on life sciences, biomedicine, agriculture, and manufacture. Hydroxylamine (NH2OH), a typical nucleophile, has been widely served as the nitrogenous feedstock to produce nitrogenous chemicals. Conventional NH2OH synthesis methods rely on harsh reaction conditions, leading to an unfavorable environmental footprint. In contrast, nitric oxide electroreduction promises to produce NH2OH powered by renewable electricity. Some achievements have revealed the possibility of this process, but have also identified significant challenges. The activity and selectivity are fundamentally limited by competing hydrogenation reactions, while the performance evaluation with high accuracy and reproducibility is challenging. Herein, this review aims to provide insight into the mechanism of NH2OH electrosynthesis, especially regarding understanding reaction pathways and the design principle towards efficient electrocatalyst. Then, the performance evaluation parameters and standard measurement methods for NH2OH synthesis are summarized to screen efficient electrocatalysts. Finally, the prospects and emerging opportunities to synthesize nitrogen-containing organic compounds by tandem reaction are proposed. This review aims to provide a guide for evaluating and exploring efficient electrocatalytic systems for NH2OH production and utilization technology.