A mini review on post-C-C coupling mediated CO2 electroreduction to C2+ alcohols

Abstract

Electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR), which can convert CO2 into high-value chemicals and fuels, presents a promising and sustainable strategy to address environmental and energy challenges. The proton and electron transfer processes following C-C coupling significantly affect the reaction pathway toward alcohols or C2H4 . To date, few reviews have specifically addressed this process and its impact on C2+ product selectivity. Recent studies have demonstrated that regulating proton transfer dynamics post C-C coupling is an effective strategy to enhance alcohol production. This mini review highlights how modulating post-C-C coupling process can improve the efficiency of CO2 RR toward C2+ alcohols and suppress undesired C2H4 formation. We first introduce the catalytic mechanism and reaction pathway of CO2RR toward alcohols. Subsequently, we summarize and analyze modulation strategies for post-C-C coupling, including interface engineering, defects engineering, morphology tuning, alloying and surface modification. Finally, current research limitations are discussed, and perspectives for future investigations are outlined. This mini review provides new insights into CO2RR mechanisms and offers guidance for the rational design of efficient catalysts for the selective production of C2+ alcohols.