Recent advances in Ni-based catalysts for hybrid CO2 electrolysis

Abstract

A promising strategy to improve the overall system efficiency and techno-economic viability of the electrochemical CO₂ reduction reaction (CO₂RR) is the development of novel hybrid CO₂ electrolysis systems. These systems achieve this by coupling CO₂RR with anodic oxidation reactions that consume less energy or produce more valuable products, thereby replacing the traditional oxygen evolution reaction. While most existing reviews in this field center on the construction of systems, the development of electrocatalysts that combine low cost with high performance remains a central challenge. In this work, we focused on some of the most rapidly developed catalytic materials in recent CO₂RR research—nickel-based materials—which demonstrated an excellent balance between cost-effectiveness and outstanding electrocatalytic activity. Initially, the mechanism of CO₂RR on nickel-based materials was outlined. In parallel, recent advances in nickel-based CO₂RR catalysts with different material characteristics were summarized. Subsequently, the application of nickel-based materials in hybrid CO₂ electrolysis was discussed, including their role as cathodic CO₂RR catalysts and as bifunctional catalysts active on both the cathode and anode sides. Additionally, the exclusive use of nickel-based materials as anodic catalysts in systems was concisely summarized. Finally, the current challenges and future development opportunities were discussed.