Transition Metal-based Single-Atom Catalysts used for CO 2 Reduction Reaction to CO

Abstract

The electrocatalytic CO 2 reduction reaction (e-CO 2 RR), powered by renewable energy in a mild condition, has emerged as an effective way for converting CO 2 into value-added chemicals with a flexible and controllable selectivity. The catalysts play significant roles in determining the reaction pathways and the final products. The rational design of the advanced electrocatalysts to achieve an efficient e-CO 2 RR is highly desired. Transition metal-based single-atom catalysts (SACs), where individual transition metal atoms are uniformly dispersed and anchored on a solid support, can maximize the efficiency of metal atomic utilization and offer unique active sites for efficient CO 2 conversion with high selectivity. Among the electrocatalytic CO 2 reduction products, Carbon monoxide (CO) stands out for its high catalytic current density, high yield, and cost savings from no separation from the electrolyte. Different from previous reviews, this paper reviews the recent research progress of transition metal SACs in the field of electrochemical CO 2 reduction to CO. The article first introduces the reaction mechanism and main reaction pathways of e-CO 2 RR to CO, then describes the recently reported transition metal SACs electrocatalysts and their synthesis methods, and focuses on the performance analysis.