Recent Advances in Electrochemical, Photochemical, and Photoelectrochemical Reduction of CO2 to C2+ Products

Environmental problems such as global warming are one of the most prominent global challenges. Researchers are investigating various methods for decreasing CO2 emissions. The CO2 reduction reaction via electrochemical, photochemical, and photoelectrochemical processes has been a popular research topic because the energy it requires can be sourced from renewable sources. The CO2 reduction reaction converts stable CO2 molecules into useful products such as CO, CH4, C2H4, and C2H5OH. To obtain economic benefits from these products, it is important to convert them into hydrocarbons above C-2. Numerous investigations have demonstrated the uniqueness of the C-C coupling reaction of Cu-based catalysts for the conversion of CO2 into useful hydrocarbons above C-2 for electrocatalysis. Herein, the principle of semiconductors for photocatalysis is briefly introduced, followed by a description of the obstacles for C2+ production. This review presents an overview of the mechanism of hydrocarbon formation above C-2, along with advances in the improvement, direction, and comprehension of the CO2 reduction reaction via electrochemical, photochemical, and photoelectrochemical processes.

Automated summary

Environmental problems, including global warming, are major global challenges, and researchers are exploring various methods to reduce CO2 emissions. The CO2 reduction reaction has attracted significant attention due to its potential utilization of renewable energy sources. This reaction converts stable CO2 molecules into valuable hydrocarbon products such as CO, CH4, C2H4, and C2H5OH. The conversion into hydrocarbons above C-2 is crucial for economic benefits. Investigations have shown that Cu-based catalysts play a unique role in the C-C coupling reaction for electrocatalysis. This review provides an overview of the CO2 reduction reaction via electrochemical, photochemical, and photoelectrochemical processes, including the mechanism of hydrocarbon formation and recent advancements.