A Perspective on Photocatalytic Synthesis of NH3, Urea, and Amino Acids by Nanomaterials: Progress and Prospects

A sustainable world is only possible when we are ready to deliver a net zero carbon emission energy sector. In this regard, we must not only consider more renewable energy resources but also find alternate paths for making some popular molecules like NH3 and urea for a lesser carbon footprint. This perspective article summarizes the recent progress of the photocatalytic synthesis of NH3, urea, and some amino acids using novel nanomaterials where we have focused on various approaches to catalyst design like metal oxides, metal sulfides, metal-free catalysts, and biomimicking catalysts for ambient condition N-2 activation. Later we discussed general reaction pathways, a detailed mechanistic overview, and future material layout for a sustainable approach towards N-2 activation.