Graphene-based catalysts for electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction

Abstract

In response to environmental concerns and the energy transition, electrochemical CO₂ reduction (eCO₂RR) to valuable chemicals and feedstocks using renewable electricity holds significant promise. Yet the challenge remains in developing efficient, low-cost catalysts that exhibit no detrimental environmental effects. Emerging graphene-based materials have demonstrated exceptional potential for eCO₂RR due to their distinctive electronic characteristics and structural advantages, providing remarkable activity, selectivity, and durability. Moreover, they are earth-abundant, non-toxic, and environmentally friendly. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the application of graphene-based materials as a catalyst for eCO₂RR, focusing on strategies to optimize catalytic performance. Key strategies, such as heteroatom doping and metal-graphene hybridization, are discussed. Furthermore, this review not only explores traditional graphene-based materials but also covers emerging graphene analogs for eCO₂RR. It also highlights challenges, providing perspectives on future research directions to further improve the design and application of graphene-based catalysts for sustainable CO₂ conversion.