Two-dimensional Cu-based materials for electrocatalytic carbon dioxide reduction

Electrocatalytic CO₂ reduction reaction (CO₂RR) has emerged as a focal point in sustainable energy research, offering the potential for closed carbon cycle. Among numerous catalysts designed for CO₂RR, two-dimensional (2D) Cu-based catalysts stand out for their remarkable performance in efficiently converting CO₂ into high-value-added C₁ and C₂₊ chemicals. Herein, we discuss the recent progress and challenges in the realm of CO₂RR utilizing 2D Cu-based catalysts. The first section introduces various synthetic strategies, emphasizing the features and advantages of different techniques and proposing solutions to existing challenges. The second part outlines the reaction mechanism underlying the production of C₁ and C₂₊ products on Cu-based catalysts, then summarizes applications of different types 2D Cu-based catalysts in CO₂RR. Additionally, we evaluate the limitations of 2D Cu-based catalysts and propose improved strategies. Through this exploration of research advances and challenges, we hope to illuminate the path toward developing excellent CO₂ electrocatalysts.