Recent progress in electrochemical reduction of CO2 by oxide-derived copper catalysts

Oxide-derived copper (Cu) catalysts often show significantly improved performance for carbon dioxide (CO2) reduction reactions compared with metallic Cu. In this article, we summarize the recently reported methods for preparing oxide-derived Cu catalysts and discuss the current understanding of the reaction mechanisms, including the role of mixed oxidation states of copper, subsurface oxygen, local pH, and electrolyte. Finally, we share our thoughts about the current challenges for oxide-derived Cu catalysts and the potential solutions.