Design and Application of Metal and Support Interfaces for Electrochemical CO2 Reduction Reaction

Abstract

The electrochemical CO2 reduced reaction (CO2RR) has gained considerable interest as a potential solution for achieving carbon neutralization. However, the unsuitable intermediates adsorption, aggregation of active sites, and intricate electron transfer processes hindered the conversion efficiency, which has spurred researchers to explore the smart strategy for the construction of the superior electrocatalysts. In recent years, metal-support interaction and Mott-Schottky heterojunction catalysts have been utilized to facilitate CO2RR by optimizing the intermediates adsorption, stabilizing the active sites and guiding electron transfer path way. While the comprehensive review including the design fundamentals of interface and mechanism research of interface effect for the enhancement of CO2RR is rarely reported. Herein, we comprehensively explored the concept, function, and design role of the composite materials including metal-support and heterojunction systems. Furthermore, this review presents an in-depth analysis of how the electrocatalysts and related materials facilitate CO2RR through electron transfer, interfacial sites as well as synergistic effects, especially in terms of the mechanism of action. Finally, the prospects and hurdles are illuminated for the metal-support interaction and Mott-Schottky heterojunctions.