Electrochemical CO2 reduction: From catalysts to reactive thermodynamics and kinetics
Feihan Yu, Kang Deng, Minshu Du, Wenxuan Wang, Feng Liu, Daxin Liang
Abstract
The carbon dioxide electroreduction reaction (CO2RR) can convert CO2 into value-added fuels or chemicals, thus becoming a promising approach for balancing the carbon cycle and realizing a low-carbon economy. Here, we describe in detail the preparation, performance, reaction mechanism and theoretical research progress of four representative CO2RR catalysts, including metal-based electrocatalysts, single-atom electrocatalysts, porphyrin-based complexes and biomass-derived nonmetallic carbon-based materials. In particular, the electrochemical thermodynamic framework, kinetics, and thermodynamic-kinetic correlation in the CO2RR are discussed. The concept of thermodynamic-kinetic synergy and some perspectives on the future design of electrocatalysts are also presented, with the aim of facilitating research and development in this area.