Cu2O@COF core–shell catalyst for electrochemical CO2 reduction

Abstract

The electrochemical reduction of CO₂ (CO₂RR) to C₂₊ products offers a sustainable approach for carbon utilization and the production of valuable chemicals. Cu₂O nanocubes (NCs) have emerged as effective electrocatalysts for the formation of C₂₊ products. In this study, we applied a coating of Cu₂O NCs with robust covalent organic framework (COF) layers prepared by multicomponent reactions. Compact layers of COFs are formed, which, due to their porosity, allow full accessibility of the Cu₂O catalytic surfaces to CO₂ molecules. Furthermore, the thickness and chemical functionality of the COF layers can be continuously varied by changing the type and quantity of monomers used to cover the Cu₂O NCs. Electrocatalytic measurements demonstrate that these hybrid core–shell Cu@COF systems remain active in CO₂ reduction, achieving good current density and faradaic efficiency, while maintaining selectivity for the desired CO₂ reduction products. Additionally, the COF shell provides remarkable stability to the system under electrochemical conditions.