Co engineered CoP catalyst for photochemical CO2 reduction with accelerated electron transfer endowed by the space-charge region

Abstract

Photocatalytic CO2 reduction has been regarded as an ideal method to simulate photosynthesis for achieving carbon neutralization. However, poor charge transfer efficiency limits its development. Herein, an efficient Co/CoP@C catalyst was prepared with compact contact of Co and CoP layer by using MOF as precursor. At the interface of Co/CoP, the difference in functionality between the two phases may result in uneven distribution of electrons, thus forming a self-driven space-chare region. In this region, spontaneous electron transfer is guaranteed, thus facilitating the effective separation of photogenerated carriers as well as boosting the utilization of solar energy. Furthermore, the electron density of active site Co in CoP is increased and more active sites are exposed, which promotes the adsorption and activation of CO2 molecules. Together with suitable redox potential, low energy barrier for *COOH formation and easy desorption of CO, the reduction rate of CO2 catalyzed by Co/CoP@C is 4 times higher than that of CoP@C.