Electrochemical CO2 Reduction Technology Toward Practical Application: Status Quo and Challenges

Abstract

Electrochemical CO2 reduction (denoted as ECO2R) technology is expected to transform greenhouse gas CO2 into a range of fuels and chemicals combined with renewable electricity. A wide range of fundamental research has been dedicated to the clarification of reaction mechanisms and developing the catalyst materials, which have significantly facilitated the level of ECO2R technology. Nevertheless, ECO2R technology still encounters limitations such as low CO2 utilization efficiency and insufficient selectivity to high-value products. Addressing these challenges is crucial for the technology to be implemented in practical applications. In an electrolysis system, the electrolyzer represents the core component of the system and the primary reaction site. Therefore, the composition and structure of the electrolyzer will directly affect the reaction performance. This review begins by outlining the recent progress of the ECO2R technology at a large-scale level, followed by a comprehensive analysis of the industrial ECO2R electrolyzer configuration, including detailed considerations of the electrode, gas diffusion layer, and membrane in the electrolyzer. Finally, we elucidate the remaining challenges associated with the industrialization of this technology and offer suggestions for advancing it.