Catalyst Design for Electrochemical Reduction of CO2 to Multicarbon Products

Abstract Electrochemical reduction of CO2 (CO2RR), driven by renewable energy (such as wind and solar energy), is an effective route toward carbon neutralization. The multicarbon (C2+) products from CO2RR are highly desirable, since they are important fuels, chemicals, and industrial raw materials. However, selective reduction of CO2 to C2+ products is especially challenging, due to low selectivity, poor yield, and high overpotential. Since the performance of CO2RR is closely related to the structure and composition of catalysts, which alter the binding energy of intermediates generated in CO2RR, it is necessary to study these effects systematically to achieve possible design strategies. Herein, design strategies toward catalysts for CO2 conversion to C2+ products are discussed on the basis of the adjustment of the structure and composition of catalysts, such as morphology control, defect engineering, bimetal, and surface modification. Meanwhile the reaction mechanisms and structure evolution of catalysts during CO2RR are focused on in particular. Finally, challenges and perspectives are proposed for further improvement of CO2RR technologies.