How to select heterogeneous CO2 reduction electrocatalyst

Abstract

As an important part of carbon neutralization, carbon dioxide electroreduction reaction (CO2RR) can convert CO2 into high value-added chemicals and fuels to realize the recycling of carbon resources and solve the problem of environmental pollution. Therefore, exploring the element species and surface structure of the catalyst plays a central role in improving the performance of the catalyst, enhancing the CO2 conversion efficiency and forming C1 and C2+ products. Here, we summarize the recent progress in the selective regulation of CO2RR reaction products by different elements. In particular, we emphasize the structure-property relationship of CO2RR by the microenvironment of metal center and substrate, heteroatom doping, hydrogen bond network of metal-free polymer, and construction of heterogeneous catalytic system. At the same time, the recent advances for the identification of CO2RR active sites and mechanistic studies on the process of reducing CO2 conversion to different products are reviewed, as well as a comprehensive review to the final products. Finally, we outline the inevitable challenges faced by CO2RR and present our own recommendations aimed at contributing to CO2 resource utilization.