Coral-like Oxide-Derived Cu Decorated Sn for Efficient CO2 Electrochemical Reduction

Abstract

Currently, one of the main obstacle for CO2 electrocatalytic reduction is the development of economical and efficient electrocatalysts. Among various electrocatalysts, Sn-based materials are especially appealing due to their low toxic and low cost for large scale use. However, the practical electrolysis of Sn-based electrocatalyst is severely hindered by its low energy efficiency and electrochemical stability. In this work, a coral-like Cu decorated Sn electrocatalyst is prepared by electrochemical reduction of Cu doped SnO2 developed by a facile hydrothermal synthesis process. By introducing subsurface metastable oxide and incorporating Cu into Sn, the binding nature of electrocatalyst is effectively altered. Meanwhile, a well-designed coral-like matrix nanostructure contributes to an improved electrocatalytic activity and stability. With the protection of the matrix, the migration of atoms is constrained to a certain range, which resolves the sintering problem essentially. With ultra-small nanoparticles both spaced and connected by the matrix, facilitated electrolyte diffusion and unimpeded electron transfer are ensured at the same time. Therefore, the study of the coral-like Cu decorated Sn electrocatalyst may path a new way for the practical application in CO2 electrochemical reduction.