How to go beyond C1 products with electrochemical reduction of CO2

Abstract

The electrochemical reduction of CO₂ to produce fuels and value-added organic chemicals is of great potential, providing a mechanism to convert and store renewable energy within a carbon-neutral energy circle. Currently the majority of studies report C₁ products such as carbon monoxide and formate as the major CO₂ reduction products. A particularly challenging goal within CO₂ electrochemical reduction is the pursuit of multi-carbon (C₂₊) products which have been proposed to enable a more economically viable value chain. This review summaries recent development across electro-, photoelectro- and bioelectro-catalyst developments. It also explores the role of device design and operating conditions in enabling C–C bond generation.