(84q) Strategies to Control the Microenvironment in Electrochemical CO2 Reduction

The electrochemical CO₂ reduction reaction (CO₂RR) represents a critical approach toward the carbon-neutral generation of hydrocarbons. However, despite intense research efforts, the need remains to increase selectivity and activity for electrocatalysts for CO₂RR. Thus, there has been increasing interest in optimizing the microenvironment to boost activity and selectivity for CO₂ conversion.

This presentation discusses several strategies that are being pursued in my research group to optimize the microenvironment for CO₂ conversion. These strategies include: (1) control of diffusion via engineering electrode structure at micro- and nano- length scales, (2) control of diffusion via control of the localization of tandem catalysts, (3) implementation of bioelectrochemical tandem systems for CO₂ conversion, (4) implementation of MOF coatings to define the microenvironment, and (5) implementation of high-temperature non-aqueous electrolytes. Thus, this presentation surveys a wide range of ongoing research strategies to optimize the microenvironment towards more effective CO₂RR.