Robust catalyst assessment for the electrocatalytic nitrate reduction reaction

The electrochemical nitrate reduction reaction (NO3RR) shows great promise for the distributed conversion of waste nitrate to ammonia. We highlight complexities of the reaction mechanism and possible waste feedstocks, and advocate best practices for robust measurement of catalyst activity, selectivity, and Faradaic efficiency in this burgeoning field. While fundamental studies of the reaction mechanism and environment are still needed, rigorous performance assessment in well-defined conditions will best enable catalyst design. Progress will be most dynamic and responsive with shared community standards that enable comparison between groups while reflecting the complexity of possible feedstocks