Fresh-raising effect of Pd on a Au–Pd/C catalyst for highly efficient electrocatalytic properties towards the CO2 reduction reaction

Abstract

Gold (Au) serves as an ideal metal catalyst for the electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide (CO₂) due to its weak hydrogen precipitation effect; however, its wider applicability is constrained by high costs, high energy requirements, and poor selectivity. In this study, we introduce a novel concept termed the “fresh-raising effect,” which reveals that the incorporation of trace palladium (Pd) into the Au catalyst significantly enhances the electrocatalytic performance of the CO₂ reduction reaction (CO₂RR). By precisely controlling the ratio of Au and Pd, we successfully synthesized an Au–Pd/C catalyst with low content of noble metal. It was found that only a trace amount of Pd (0.3%) was introduced, and the FEco can reach 92.6% at −0.61 V, realizing a flexible and controllable ratio of syngas over a wide range of potentials (−0.41 to −0.81 V). In particular, Au–Pd/C exhibits efficient electrocatalysis and enhanced electrolytic stability towards the reduction conversion of CO₂ into CO. This work offers a fresh approach to design CO₂RR electrocatalysts with excellent performance and low noble metal content.