Common strategies for improving the performances of tin and bismuth-based catalysts in the electrocatalytic reduction of CO2 to formic acid/formate

Electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2) to value-added chemicals has become a research hotspot because of its efficiency, cleanliness and convenience in the solving of the environmental and energy issues. Electroreduction of CO2 to formic acid/formate (HCOOH/HCOO−) is considered as one of economical as well as feasible ways. To date, tin (Sn)- and bismuth (Bi)-based catalysts have been extensively studied due to their high-efficiency, low cost, and environmental friendliness. Various strategies have been used to enhance their CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) performances. Herein, the common strategies for the improving of the electrocatalytic performance of these catalysts in the electrochemical CO2RR to HCOOH/HCOO− are critically reviewed. Especially, the mechanisms for the enhancement of electrocatalytic performance are analyzed and discussed. It is expected to give some inspiration for the researchers to design and synthesize more efficient electrocatalysts for the CO2RR.