(Invited) Tuning Electrochemical Fuel Synthesis by Controlling the Reaction Environment

Abstract

The direct and selectivity reduction of CO2 and CO to hydrocarbon fuels could play a key role in closing the carbon cycle. However, many fuels are accessible over a narrow range in electrochemical potential, requiring general design principles for controlling kinetic branching in these reactions. We have uncovered the central role of the reaction environment in facilitating selective CO2 and CO activation reactions at electrode surfaces and have employed electrolyte design to alter the mechanistic profile of fuel synthesis. Our latest findings in this area will be discussed.