journal article·2026-06

Key Strategies for Electrocatalytic C‐N Coupling: From Reaction Pathways to Catalyst Engineering and Performance Evaluation

Hanxiao Du, Fu Liu, Yunhao Wang, Mingzheng Shao, Xiang Meng, Juan Wang, Liang Guo, Zikang Xu, Rundong Zhao, Fangren Qian, Fengkun Hao, Guozhi Wang, Chaohui Wang, Zhanxi Fan

Small· Volume 22· Issue 34
Publisher page

Abstract

ABSTRACT The construction of C‐N bonds is of fundamental importance in organic synthesis, pharmaceutical chemistry, agrochemical science, and functional materials, serving as a key structural unit in numerous bioactive molecules and functional compounds. Electrocatalytic C‐N coupling has attracted considerable interest due to its environmentally friendly nature and mild reaction conditions. By utilizing renewable energy to drive the transformation, this strategy enables efficient and controllable formation of C‐N bonds. A comprehensive overview of reaction mechanisms, engineering strategies and performance evaluation systems is urgently needed to deepen the understanding of structure‐activity relationships and provide clear guidance for future research directions. Accordingly, this review systematically summarizes recent advances in electrocatalytic C‐N coupling mainly from three main aspects: (1) elucidating the activation mechanisms and representative reaction pathways of various carbon sources and nitrogen sources; (2) discussing rational catalyst design strategies, including the modulation of active sites and the optimization of local microenvironment; and (3) summarizing the existing evaluation methodologies and technical means. Finally, through the in‐depth discussion of current challenges and future development directions, this review aims to offer theoretical foundations and technical support for practical applications of electrocatalytic C‐N coupling, promoting the construction of more efficient and sustainable processing systems.
Source: crossref · Quality: baseline

Research context

OpenAlex topics: Ammonia Synthesis and Nitrogen Reduction · Radical Photochemical Reactions · Catalytic Cross-Coupling Reactions

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

Affiliations

Department of Chemistry City University of Hong Kong Kowloon Hong Kong SAR China

Hong Kong Branch of National Precious Metals Material Engineering Research Center (NPMM) City University of Hong Kong Kowloon Hong Kong SAR China

Hong Kong Institute for Clean Energy City University of Hong Kong Kowloon Hong Kong SAR China

City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute Shenzhen China

Funding

National Natural Science Foundation of China · Shenzhen Science and Technology Innovation Program

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