Cu-modified InVO 4 photocatalysts for enhanced N 2 fixation using chemical reagents and electroplating sludge as the Cu source.

Inspired by simulation analysis, we found that Cu decoration could enhance the NH 3 production rate of InVO 4 through promoting N 2 adsorption and reducing the activation energy of the key hydrogenation step. 5% Cu/InVO 4 exhibited an optimal NH 3 yield of 195.11 μmol g cat -1 h -1 , approximately six times higher than that of InVO 4 . Cu/InVO 4 was also fabricated by upcycling Cu from electroplating sludge, achieving a gratifying nitrogen fixation performance of 154.13 μmol g cat -1 h -1 .