Sn-based electrocatalysts for electrochemical CO2 reduction

Electrochemical CO2 reduction into value-added chemicals represents an attractive and promising approach to capitalize on the abundant CO2 present in the atmosphere. This reaction, however, is hampered by low energy efficiency and selectivity owing to competition from hydrogen evolution reaction and multiple-electron transfer processes. Therefore, there is a pressing need to develop efficient yet cost-effective electrocatalysts to facilitate practical applications. Sn-based electrocatalysts have gained increasing attention in this active field due to their outstanding merits such as abundance, non-toxicity, and environmental friendliness. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in Sn-based catalysts for the CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR), beginning with a brief introduction to the CO2RR mechanism. Subsequently, the CO2RR performance of various Sn-based catalysts with different structures is discussed. The article concludes by addressing the existing challenges and offering personal perspectives on the future prospects in this exciting research area.

Automated summary

Electrochemical CO2 reduction into value-added chemicals is an attractive approach but hindered by low efficiency and selectivity. Sn-based electrocatalysts have gained attention for their merits. This review provides an overview of recent advances in Sn-based catalysts, including CO2RR mechanism, performance, challenges, and future prospects.