BIO-UREACT · Bioanode-Integrated Urea Electrosynthesis via Rationally Engineered Dual-Atom Catalysts

The BIO-UREACT project aims to develop a dual-functional electrochemical system for sustainable urea production. At the cathode, rationally engineered bimetallic single-atom catalysts (bim-SACs) will drive the co-reduction of CO2 and NOₓ into urea, combining the high activity of platinum-group metals (PGMs) with the cost-efficiency of non-PGMs. Simultaneously, a microbial bioanode will oxidize organic pollutants in wastewater, enabling water purification while supplying anodic current to reduce the system’s overall energy demand. To optimize efficiency and selectivity, in-situ spectroscopic techniques will be employed to uncover the molecular mechanisms of C–N bond formation, guiding the rational design of advanced catalysts. By leveraging PGM/non-PGM synergy at the atomic scale, BIO-UREACT will enable efficient urea synthesis under ambient, low-voltage conditions, advancing the fundamental understanding of electrochemical processes and supporting the transition to a circular, low-carbon economy.