Mechanism Comprehension and Design of MOF Catalysts for Photocatalytic Ammonia Production

Ammonia (NH3) has attracted considerable attention as a source of fertilizer and a sustainable energy carrier. However, The Haber-Bosch ammonia manufacturing method continues to be plagued by excessive electrical consumption and carbon dioxide emissions. Alternatively, the photocatalytic production of NH3 as an approach for N2 fixation and solar energy conversion has been progressively demonstrated as a more benign synthesis strategy. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) as photocatalysts for ammonia production are becoming one of the most promising options because of their design flexibility and new form factors, such as composites. The goal of this Perspective is to offer a timely overview of recent advances in MOF catalysts for photocatalytic ammonia production, as well as an introduction to the fundamentals of N2 fixation and the key state-of-the-art characterization for MOF catalysts. A detailed insight into the trends and challenges for MOF catalysts is also provided to stimulate inspiration for photocatalytic ammonia production.