An overview of Cu-based heterogeneous electrocatalysts for CO2 reduction

Abstract

The electrochemical (EC) reduction of CO₂ is a promising approach for value-added fuel or chemical production. Cu-based electrodes have been extensively used as a ‘star’ material for CO₂ reduction to hydrocarbons. This review mainly focuses on the recent progress of Cu-based heterogeneous electrocatalysts for CO₂ reduction from 2013 to 2019. Various morphologies of oxide-derived, bimetallic Cu species and their activity in EC CO₂ reduction are reviewed, providing insights for the standardization of Cu-based heterogeneous systems. We also present a tutorial manual to describe parameters for the EC CO₂ reduction process, especially for the pretreatment of the reaction system. This will offer useful guidance for newcomers to the field. Aqueous and non-aqueous electrolyte effects based on Cu electrodes are discussed. Finally, an overview of reaction systems of EC/PEC CO₂ reduction and H₂O oxidation for Cu-based heterogeneous catalysts is provided.