Electrochemical Reduction of Carbon Dioxide to Ethanol: A Review

Abstract Converting CO 2 to renewable fuels via clean and cost‐effective chemical processes is very desirable for the sustainable development of green civilization. The electrochemical CO 2 reduction (ECO 2 R) to ethanol using renewable energy is a green and effective strategy for addressing global warming and energy shortage issues. But, simultaneous generation of multiple gaseous & liquid products and low catalytic activities are limiting the technology‘s practical use in the short term. In this study, recent scientific developments in ECO 2 R for selective production of ethanol are reviewed which include both theoretical and experimental aspects. The reported electro‐catalysts are categorized into different groups and the performance of these electro‐catalysts/electrodes is summarized. The effect of electro‐catalysts’ composition & its morphology, applied potential, type of electrolyte, metal loading, reactor configuration, etc. are comprehensively summarized. Furthermore, the present status & challenges and future prospects are presented to help in future design and planning of high‐performance electro‐catalysts for ethanol.