The field of nitrogen fixation, the process of converting nitrogen gas into ammonia, is a critical area of research due to its importance in agriculture and industry. However, the traditional method, the Haber-Bosch process, is energy-intensive and environmentally unfriendly. Recent studies have explored the use of d-block metal complexes to catalyze the reduction of dinitrogen to ammonia under ambient conditions. However, there is a lack of research on electropositive metal complexes, such as those of the f-block, which lack filled d-orbitals that would support classical binding modes of N2. Furthermore, the role of electron and proton donor combinations in nitrogen reduction reactions is not thoroughly reviewed in existing literature, despite their significance.

The goal of this research topic is to explore the potential of electropositive metal complexes in catalyzing dinitrogen reduction and to provide a comprehensive review of electron and proton donor combinations in nitrogen reduction reactions. The research aims to fill the gaps in the current understanding of nitrogen fixation, particularly in the use of f-block metal complexes and the role of donor combinations. The research also aims to provide clear and organized information about these combinations, along with a summary of their general performance trend in nitrogen reduction reactions with related catalysts.

The scope of this research topic is limited to the study of electropositive metal complexes and electron and proton donor combinations in nitrogen reduction reactions. The research will focus on the following themes:

- The use of f-block metal complexes in catalyzing dinitrogen reduction.

- The role of electron and proton donor combinations in nitrogen reduction reactions.

- The performance trend of these combinations in nitrogen reduction reactions with related catalysts.

- The potential of these combinations in advancing the field of nitrogen fixation.

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Frontiers in Chemistry

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