Ionic liquids enhance the electrochemical CO2 reduction catalyzed by MoO2

Abstract

Several imidazolium-based ionic liquids significantly enhance the activity of MoO₂ for electrochemical reduction of CO₂. The overpotential of CO₂ reduction is as low as 40 mV. The ionic liquids act as both electrolytes and co-catalysts, which not only leads to lower overpotentials, but also alters the product selectivity.