Dual?Metal Sites Boosting Polarization of Nitrogen Molecules for Efficient Nitrogen Photofixation

Constructing nitrogen (N2) adsorption and activation sites on semiconductors is the key to achieving efficient N2 photofixation. Herein, Mn–W dual-metal WO3 are designed toward photoreduction via controlled Mn doping. Impressively, optimal 2.3% Mn-doped (Mn-WO3) exhibits a remarkable ammonia (NH3) production rate of 425 µmol gcat.?1 h?1, representing best catalytic performance among ever-reported tungsten oxide-based photocatalysts for fixation. Quasi in situ synchrotron radiation X-ray spectroscopy directly identifies that can enhance polarization adsorbed N2, which beneficial activation. Further theoretical calculations reveal increased originated from electron back-donation into antibonding orbitals hence lowering reaction energy barrier The concept dual construction inert molecule offers powerful platform rational design highly catalysts fixation beyond.