Minireview on Perovskite Oxide-Based Materials toward Enhanced Electrocatalytic Nitrate Reduction for Ammonia Synthesis: Advances and Perspectives

Ammonia is not only an essential chemical for industry and agriculture but also a promising energy carrier due to its high energy density, carbon-free nature, and ease of storage. However, its conventional production via the Haber–Bosch process is energy-intensive and emits significant greenhouse gases. Recently, electrochemical nitrate reduction has emerged as a sustainable alternative, enabling the conversion of nitrate pollutants from wastewater into valuable ammonia under ambient conditions by using renewable electricity. Among various catalyst candidates, perovskite oxides have attracted increasing attention due to their compositional flexibility, structural tunability, and favorable electronic properties. This review provides a timely overview of recent advances in perovskite oxide-based catalysts for the electrochemical nitrate reduction reaction toward ammonia synthesis (eNO3RR). We begin by outlining the reaction mechanisms of the eNO3RR and discussing the distinct advantages of perovskite oxides for the eNO3RR. We then critically examine key design strategies for improving electrocatalytic performance. Finally, we explore future directions for advancing perovskite-based eNO3RR systems with a focus on standardized benchmarking, mechanistic elucidation, and device development. This review aims to offer valuable guidance for researchers in electrocatalysis, environmental remediation, and sustainable energy seeking efficient pathways for green ammonia production.