Directing the Reactivity of [HFe4N(CO)12]- toward H+ or CO2 Reduction by Understanding the Electrocatalytic Mechanism

Selective reactivity of an electrocatalytically generated catalyst-hydride intermediate toward the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) or reduction of CO2 is key for a CO2 reduction electrocatalyst. Under appropriate conditions, Et4N[Fe4N(CO)(12)] (Et4N-1) is a catalyst for the HER or for CO2 conversion at -1.25 V vs SCE using a glassy carbon electrode.