Cu-modified InVO4 photocatalysts for enhanced N2 fixation using chemical reagents and electroplating sludge as the Cu source.

ABSTRACT

Inspired by simulation analysis, we found that Cu decoration could enhance the NH3 production rate of InVO4 through promoting N2 adsorption and reducing the activation energy of the key hydrogenation step. 5% Cu/InVO4 exhibited an optimal NH3 yield of 195.11 µmol gcat-1 h-1, approximately six times higher than that of InVO4. Cu/InVO4 was also fabricated by upcycling Cu from electroplating sludge, achieving a gratifying nitrogen fixation performance of 154.13 µmol gcat-1 h-1.