In situ reconstructed prism-like CuO on copper foam assisted by fumaric acid for an enhanced electrochemical nitrate reduction reaction†

The electrochemical nitrate reduction reaction (NO₃RR) is considered as a promising strategy for addressing environmental pollution and sustainable energy development. In this study, prism-like CuO loaded on copper foam (CuO/CF) was synthesized in a simple solvothermal reaction and an in situ electrochemical reconstruction process. The electrochemical reconstruction process facilitates the formation of a CuO lattice structure on copper foam derived from FU-CF generated by the reaction of copper foam and fumaric acid (H₂FU) in DMF. The prism-like CuO on the surface of copper foam served as a remarkable electrocatalyst for the electrochemical nitrate reduction reaction, regulating the rate of electron transport and maintaining an ordered structure. The prism-like CuO lattice structure demonstrated a faradaic efficiency of 95.66%, an ammonia yield of 0.741 mmol h⁻¹ cm⁻² and an NH₃ selectivity of 97.09%. This work provides a feasible strategy for fabricating Cu-based electrocatalysts for applications in green energy and environmental fields.