Advancements in electrochemical methanol synthesis from CO2: Mechanisms and catalyst developments

Electrochemical CO 2 reduction (eCO 2 R) has emerged as a promising avenue, offering the dual benefits of mitigating atmospheric CO 2 while generating value-added chemicals and fuels. In particular, eCO 2 R to methanol (CH 3 OH) holds significant promise due to its various applications in energy and chemical industries, yet only a few studies have been reported thus far, primarily due to the complexity of its reaction pathway. This review first focuses on elucidating the intricate reaction mechanisms involved in CH 3 OH production via eCO 2 R. Then, we highlight recent advancements in catalyst designs, including Cu-based, non-Cu-based, and CoPc-based electrocatalysts. Finally, we summarize the in-situ analysis techniques, including vibrational spectroscopy, X-ray absorption spectroscopy, and differential electrochemical mass spectrometry, which help gain an in-depth understanding of the reaction intermediate, surface/electronic/geometric structures of electrocatalysts under the working environments. By providing a comprehensive overview of eCO 2 R pathways towards CH 3 OH and introducing rational design principles for electrocatalysts, we believe this review can significantly contribute to the advancement of efficient and selective CH 3 OH production and offer valuable insights into the field. Electrochemical CO 2 reduction (eCO 2 R) represents a highly attractive approach for converting CO 2 into valuable carbon-based products without adding to CO 2 emissions. Methanol (CH 3 OH) stands out as a particularly promising product of eCO 2 R due to its diverse applications as a chemical feedstock and its potential as a clean energy carrier. Through eCO 2 R, the CO 2 produced during methanol utilization can be captured and recycled back into methanol in a closed carbon cycle. • The recent progress in electrochemical CO 2 reduction for methanol production is summarized. • This review offers an overview of the well-established pathway for methanol electrosynthesis from CO 2 . • Novel catalyst designs for enhanced methanol selectivity are explored. • Valuable information from various in situ analysis techniques are investigated. • This review provides a novel perspective on the future direction of the electrochemical methanol synthesis.