Post Nitrogen Electrocatalysis Era From Li-N-2 Batteries to Zn-N-2 Batteries

Metal-N-2 batteries attract considerable research attention due to the dual-functional characteristics applied in energy storage and conversion, as well as electrochemical artificial NH3 yield. Nonetheless, it has been found that not all kinds of metal-N-2 batteries are suitable for combining the above two applications. Herein, recent advances in metal-N-2 batteries are summarized. First, the electrochemical reaction mechanisms for all types of metal-N-2 batteries, including organic Li/Na/Al-N-2 batteries and aqueous Zn/Al-N-2 batteries are discussed, and then, a critical assessment of current challenges and future applications is provided. Considering the different electrochemical reaction mechanism in the metal-N-2 batteries, the electrocatalytic performance for the reported catalyst cathodes is summarized and compared. Then, a multi-dimensional feasibility and strategy analysis for the developments of rechargeable aqueous Zn-N-2 batteries is provided, including the three dimensions of cathode catalyst, electrolyte, and metal anodes. Last, specific suggestions and ideas for the further developments of the rechargeable aqueous Zn-N-2 batteries are put forward, with the hope of inspiring the further developments for the green, sustainable, and high-energy-density metal-N-2 systems in the future.