Rational design of atomic site catalysts for electrochemical CO2 reduction

Renewable-energy-powered electrochemical CO2 reduction (ECR) is a promising way of transforming CO2 to value-added products and achieving sustainable carbon recycling. By virtue of the extremely high exposure rate of active sites and excellent catalytic performance, atomic site catalysts (ASCs), including single-atomic site catalysts and diatomic site catalysts, have attracted considerable attention. In this feature article, we focus on the rational design strategies of ASCs developed in recent years for the ECR reaction. The influence of these strategies on the activity and selectivity of ASCs for ECR is further discussed in terms of electronic regulation, synergistic activation, microenvironmental regulation and tandem catalytic system construction. Finally, the challenges and future directions are indicated. We hope that this feature article will be helpful in the development of novel ASCs for ECR.

Automated summary

This feature article reviews the rational design strategies of atomic site catalysts (ASCs) developed in recent years for the electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction, including electronic regulation, synergistic activation, microenvironmental regulation, and tandem catalytic system construction. The influence of these strategies on the activity and selectivity of ASCs for ECR is discussed, and the challenges and future directions are indicated.