How to select heterogeneous CO <sub>2</sub> reduction electrocatalyst
Ji Shen, Dingsheng Wang
Abstract
As an important part of carbon neutralization, carbon dioxide electroreduction reaction (CO<sub>2</sub>RR) can convert CO<sub>2</sub> into high value-added chemicals and fuels to realize the recycling of carbon resources and solve the problem of environmental pollution. Therefore, exploring the element species and surface structure of the catalyst plays a central role in improving the performance of the catalyst, enhancing the CO<sub>2</sub> conversion efficiency and forming C<sub>1</sub> and C<sub>2+</sub> products. Here, we summarize the recent progress in the selective regulation of CO<sub>2</sub>RR reaction products by different elements. In particular, we emphasize the structure-property relationship of CO<sub>2</sub>RR by the microenvironment of metal center and substrate, heteroatom doping, hydrogen bond network of metal-free polymer, and construction of heterogeneous catalytic system. At the same time, the recent advances for the identification of CO<sub>2</sub>RR active sites and mechanistic studies on the process of reducing CO<sub>2</sub> conversion to different products are reviewed, as well as a comprehensive review to the final products. Finally, we outline the inevitable challenges faced by CO<sub>2</sub>RR and present our own recommendations aimed at contributing to CO<sub>2</sub> resource utilization.