Recent Advances in Green C-N Coupling for Urea Synthesis

The industrial synthesis of chemicals usually operates under harsh conditions with high energy consumption,aggravating energy crisis and environmental concerns. Driven by renewable electricity or/and solar energy,the energy barrier of the reaction could be reduced to achieve the efficient and green synthesis of chemicals under milder conditions. As the main small molecules,carbon dioxide and nitrogen can be used to synthesize various carbon and nitrogen-containing fuels through electrocatalysis,which can alleviate environmental problems while reducing the pressure of energy depletion and achieve the purpose of efficient energy storage. This paper briefly summarizes the recent advances in electrochemical conversion of N-2 and CO2, focusing on the improvement of reaction conditions,the adjustment of reaction route,and the investigation of catalytic mechanism. The current challenges and future development for electrocatalytic coupling of C-N are prospected. This mini-review provides a useful guidance for further developing electrochemical conversion of N-2 and CO2.