This study investigates the phase-dependent photo-electrocatalytic reduction of nitrate to ammonia using titanium dioxide (TiO2) as a catalyst. By comparing amorphous and rutile TiO2, we demonstrate how structural order and electronic characteristics influence charge transfer and the formation of key reaction intermediates during nitrate conversion. The synergistic effect of light and applied potential enables efficient nitrate reduction under mild conditions, with amorphous TiO2 showing superior activity due to its higher density of active sites and enhanced charge separation. Continuous, real-time detection of gaseous products via quadrupole mass spectrometry allowed direct correlation between catalyst structure and reaction performance. These findings underscore the critical role of defect engineering and phase control in designing advanced catalysts for sustainable ammonia synthesis, providing a greener and more energy-efficient alternative to conventional industrial processes.
Figure 1. Comparison of amorphous and rutile TiO₂ phases in photo-electrocatalytic nitrate reduction.
Project Summary by: Jacinto Sá, Uppsala Universitet, Dag Hammarskjölds Väg 7, 752 37, Uppsala, Sweden.
Paper Reference: Silveira, V. R., Fernandes, D. F., Bericat-Vadell, R., Edvinsson, T., Kubart, T. and
Sá, J. (2024) ‘Phase-dependent photo-assisted electrocatalytic conversion of nitrate to ammonia using TiO2: Insights into amorphous and rutile activity.’ Applied Catalysis O Open. Elsevier BV, November, pp. 207017–207017. DOI: 10.1016/j.apcato.2024.207017.
Hiden Product: HPR-20 R&D.
