Recent developments in designing Cu-based electrocatalysts and advanced strategies for electrochemical nitrate reduction to ammonia

Nitrate with its high stability and persistence in water can pose a serious threat to both human health and aquatic ecosystems. To tackle this issue, the electrochemical nitrate reduction reaction (NO3RR) is considered the most effective solution for reducing excess nitrate (NO3–) in water and wastewater, into a value-added product ammonia (NH3). The efficiency of NO3– removal during the electrochemical reduction process is directly influenced by the genuine catalysts, enable them one of the most crucial factors. The objective of this review is to elucidate the function of copper-based catalysts in the electrochemical conversion of NO3– to NH3 and to identify the factors that affect the performance of these catalysts. We have also devised strategies that can be applied to enhance catalytic efficiency, along with offering an overview of the recent advancements achieved in the design of copper-based electrocatalysts. This comprehensive review will provide a detailed insight into the role of Cu-based materials in electrochemical NO3– reduction and the advancement of effective electrode materials for the intended reactions. [Display omitted] •A Critical Review of Fundamentals and Challenges in Electrocatalytic Reduction of Nitrate.•Cu-Based Catalysts for Electrochemical Reduction of Nitrate to Ammonia: Mechanisms and Performance.•Efficient and Selectively Electrocatalysts Based on Copper for Nitrate Reduction to Ammonia: Advancements and Prospects.•Innovative Strategies for the Development of Novel Electrocatalysts for Nitrate Reduction.•Enhancing Nitrate Electrocatalytic Reduction through Nano-Enabled Copper-Based Catalysts and Single-Atom Catalysts.