Synergistic Cu-based catalysts with multiple active sites for high-efficiency Li–CO2 batteries

The lithium-carbon dioxide (Li-CO₂) battery is a promising energy storage technology that integrates CO₂ utilization with energy storage and conversion. However, its development is hindered by slow reaction kinetics and insulating Li₂CO₃ discharge products deposited at the cathode, which cause severe polarization and rapid capacity degradation. Herein, novel Cu-based catalysts with multiple active sites anchored on nitrogen-doped carbon (Cu/NC) are developed to achieve highly efficient Li-CO₂ batteries. Metallic Cu nanoparticles facilitate efficient electron transfer during the CO₂ reduction reaction (CO₂RR), while the induced Cu-N/O dual active sites effectively reduce the energy barrier for decomposing discharge products. Furthermore, the optimized N configurations in the NC matrix enhance the intrinsic activity of the catalytic sites. Consequently, the Li-CO₂ battery incorporating the optimized catalyst demonstrates attractive cycling stability over 850 h at 300 mA g^-1, with a remarkably low overpotential of 1.30 V, showing great potential for low-cost and highly efficient Li-CO₂ batteries. This work provides a strategic route for designing cost-effective multi-active-site catalysts, offering critical insights into the development of high-performance Li-CO₂ batteries.