Title : Enhanced photodecomposition of ammonia using ruthenium oxide-loaded 2d hematene
Abstract:
Two-dimensional (2D) non-van der Waals (n-vdW) materials, similar to graphene counterparts, offer exceptional properties and versatile uses. Among these, 2D iron oxides stand out for their magnetic, photocatalytic, and electrocatalytic potential. Here, we present the effective loading of hematene, a 2D iron oxide, with RuO2 nanoparticles to act as an efficient co-catalyst for the photocatalytic decomposition of aqueous ammonia. Ammonia, vital for fertilizers, poses challenges due to its negative impacts. Conversely, its high hydrogen densities make it an attractive carrier for clean fuel production. This study focuses on converting NH3 to H2 (fuel) and N2 (innocuous gas) using renewable energy sources. Our findings highlight the facile modification of n-vdW materials with ruthenium oxide nanoparticles, showcasing their potential for visible light-induced ammonia decomposition. Ruthenium oxide’s mid-band gap positioning expedites charge separation. This work not only advances sustainable ammonia decomposition but also contributes to magnetic technologies, photocatalysis, and electrochemistry, bridging nanomaterials and renewable energy-driven processes for a greener future