Cover Feature: Electrocatalysts for Urea Synthesis from CO2 and Nitrogenous Species: From CO2 and N2/NOx Reduction to urea synthesis (ChemSusChem 24/2024)

Abstract

The Cover Feature highlights the innovative potential of electrocatalytic C−N coupling for direct urea synthesis under ambient conditions, offering a sustainable alternative to the traditional energy-intensive Haber–Bosch process. By using carbon dioxide and nitrogenous species, this approach eliminates the need for ammonia production. In their Review, Y. Zeng, Y. Zheng and co-workers discuss the role of intermediates, active sites, and catalyst design strategies that enhance urea production, emphasizing the mechanistic insights and challenges that will shape future advancements in this field. Detailed exploration of these aspects aims to inspire further development of efficient electrocatalysts for sustainable urea synthesis.