Electrochemical reactors for the utilization of liquid-phase carbon species

Abstract

Electrochemical utilization of liquid-phase carbon species presents a promising approach to reducing CO₂ emissions while generating value-added chemicals. By bypassing energy-intensive CO₂ liberation steps, this method enables the direct integration of carbon capture and utilization. This review highlights recent advancements in the use of concentrated carbon capture solutions (>0.1 M) and seawater (∼2 mM) as feedstocks for electrochemical systems. Key developments in reaction mechanisms, catalyst design, reactor configurations, and operational strategies are explored, with a focus on enhancing selectivity, stability, and energy efficiency. Critical challenges, including system integration, impurity management, fouling, and long-term operational stability, are thoroughly analyzed. By integrating insights from technology development, reaction mechanisms, materials science, and system engineering, this review provides a comprehensive overview of this emerging field. It also outlines pathways to advance scalable and sustainable liquid-phase carbon utilization, offering a roadmap for future research and practical implementation in global carbon management efforts.