Electronic metal–support interactions enhance the ammonia synthesis activity over ruthenium supported on Zr-modified CeO2 catalysts

Abstract

Here we report that the electronic metal–support interaction influences the catalytic activity of ammonia synthesis. This effect produces an upwards shift of the d-band center of Ru nanoparticles. The upward shift of the d-band center of the Ru nanoparticles is considered to enhance the dissociation of the N₂ molecule.