Lithium‐Germanium Alloy Interfaces for Efficient Low‐Pressure Ammonia Synthesis

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Authors: Weijian Yang, Pengju Li, Kaining Duanmu, Z Zhao, Limei Tian, Dan‐Dan Zhai, Benjamin D. Sherman, Mark G. Humphrey, Zhang‐Jie Shi, C L Zhang, Ke Hu
Cited by: 1
References: 69

Abstract

ABSTRACT The lithium‐mediated nitrogen reduction reaction (Li‐NRR) offers a sustainable pathway for ammonia synthesis, providing a viable alternative to the energy‐intensive Haber‐Bosch process. While most prior studies focused on solution‐phase optimization, we introduce a transformative electrode engineering strategy via the rational design of triethylammonium germanate‐modified copper (Cu/TEG) electrodes. Multi‐technique characterization reveals the formation of the Li 15 Ge 4 alloy during the Li‐NRR. Electrochemical measurements combined with DFT calculations demonstrate that the Li 15 Ge 4 alloy simultaneously facilitates lithium deposition and shifts the N 2 adsorption energy more exothermic. Most importantly, this interfacial engineering enables a Faradaic efficiency (FE) of up to 92.5% at an unprecedented N 2 pressure as low as 4 bar and with minimal overpotential relative to the onset of lithium deposition. This synergy minimizes energy losses, achieving the highest reported pseudo‐energy efficiency value (17.6%) in a batch cell to the best of our knowledge. Overall, this work establishes dual‐function interfacial engineering via lithium‐germanium alloy formation as a breakthrough strategy, moving beyond conventional solution‐phase optimization to provide a new approach for efficient electrochemical nitrogen fixation.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Ammonia Synthesis and Nitrogen Reduction Phosphorus and nutrient management Hydrogen Storage and Materials

Publication details

Journal / source
Angewandte Chemie International Edition
Publisher
Wiley
Volume
65
Issue
31
Pages
e9951729–e9951729
Publication date
28 May 2026
Language
EN