Effective N2 activation strategies for electrochemical ammonia synthesis

Ammonia (NH₃) synthesis using N₂ as reaction raw material powered by renewable electricity provides a promising route to realize artificial N₂ fixation. However, the activation of N₂ molecules, a crucial step in the process, remains challenging. Recently, significant progress has been made in developing effective strategies, including lithium (Li)/calcium (Ca)-mediated and plasma-assisted technologies, to enhance N₂ activation. These technologies involve the conversion of inert N₂ into more reactive nitrogen-containing species, which are further converted to produce NH₃. In this review, we present recent pioneering works on effective N₂ activation strategies, including Li/Ca-mediated and plasma-assisted technologies for electrochemical NH₃ synthesis. Finally, we highlight the remaining challenges and prospects. We hope that this review will provide profound insights and inspire innovative thinking in the area of effective N₂ activation strategies, thereby significantly advancing the field of electrochemical NH₃ synthesis.