Heterostructuring 2D TiO2 nanosheets in situ grown on Ti3C2T MXene to improve the electrocatalytic nitrogen reduction

In this study, TiO2 nanosheets (NSs) grown in situ on extremely conductive Ti3C2Tx MXene to form TiO2/Ti3C2Tx composites with abundant active sites are proposed effectively achieve electrocatalytic NH3 synthesis. Electron transfer can be promoted by high conductivity. Meanwhile, the NSs in-situ formation not only avoid microstacking but also enhance surface specific area of MXene. The catalyst reaches a Faradaic efficiency (FE) 44.68% at −0.75 V vs. RHE and large yield 44.17 µg h−1 mg−1cat. −0.95 V, strong electrochemical durability. 15N isotopic labeling experiments imply that N produced originated from N2 electrolyte. DFT calculations were conducted determine possible NRR reaction pathways for composites. catalysts combined other materials have been rationally designed efficient ammonia production under ambient conditions.