Metal–CO2 Electrochemistry: From CO2 Recycling to Energy Storage

Abstract Metal–CO 2 batteries are among the most intriguing techniques for addressing the severe climate crisis and have matured significantly to simultaneously realize adequate fixation of CO 2 , energy storage, and conversion. Although significant efforts have been made, the practical application of metal–CO 2 battery techniques is still restricted by various tremendous challenges, namely high charge potential, poor rate capability, and reversibility. This review seeks to present a realistic assessment of the most advanced metal–CO 2 systems to identify problems, and opportunities to conquer these challenges. The recent progress on understanding the reaction mechanism of CO 2 reduction/evolution, cathode materials, electrocatalysts design strategies, interface construction of metal anode/electrolyte, and the role of electrolytes are systematically reviewed and discussed. Meanwhile, high‐performance electrode design principles and interface construction methods are also proposed. The effect of electrolyte and the difference between the nonaqueous and aqueous electrolyte systems in the context of the reaction mechanism, catalyst selection, metal anode protection, and corresponding enhancement strategies are also presented and evaluated. Finally, several perspectives on the opportunities and crucial challenges in the future development of metal–CO 2 electrochemical systems for practical applications are proposed.