Construction of Cu nanoparticles embedded nitrogen–doped carbon derived from biomass for highly boosting the nitrobenzene reduction: An experimental and theoretical understanding

• Uniform Cu nanoparticles embedded nitrogen–doped carbon catalyst is constructed. • The catalysts are highly promising for the reduction of NB. • Experimental and DFT studies are conducted to reveal the strong mutual interaction. • Interfacial electron transfer facilitates the adsorption and activation of NB. The state-of-the-art of the catalysis area prefers the construction of highly efficient, stable and low-cost catalysts based on facile...