1
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Hamilton ST, Kelly M, Smith WA, Park AHA. Electrolyte-Electrocatalyst Interfacial Effects of Polymeric Materials for Tandem CO 2 Capture and Conversion Elucidated Using In Situ Electrochemical AFM. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:42021-42033. [PMID: 39087768 PMCID: PMC11331441 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c01908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 07/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
Integrating CO2 capture and electrochemical conversion has been proposed as a strategy to reduce the net energy required for CO2 regeneration in traditional CO2 capture and conversion schemes and can be coupled with carbon-free renewable electricity. Polyethylenimine (PEI)-based materials have been previously studied as CO2 capture materials and can be integrated in these reactive capture processes. PEI-based electrolytes have been found to significantly increase the CO2 loading, and impact selectivity and rate of product formation when compared to the conventional aqueous electrolytes. However, the influence of these materials at the catalyst-electrode interface is currently not well understood. In this study, PEI-based electrolytes were prepared and their impact on the morphology of a silver electrode performing electrochemical CO2 reduction (CO2R) was studied using in situ electrochemical atomic force microscopy (EC-AFM). The presence of PEI on the electrode surface could be distinguished based on nanomechanical properties (DMT modulus), and changes were observed as negative polarization was applied, revealing a reorganization of the PEI chains due to electrostatic interactions. These changes were impacted by the electrolyte composition, including the addition of supporting electrolyte KHCO3 salt, as well as CO2 captured by the PEI-based electrolyte, which minimized the change in surface mechanical properties and degree of PEI alignment on the electrode surface. The changes in surface mechanical properties were also dependent on the PEI polymer length, with higher molecular weight PEI showing different reconfiguration than the shorter polymer brushes. The study highlights that the choice of polymer material, the electrolyte composition, and CO2 captured impact the near-electrode environment, which has implications for CO2R, and presents EC-AFM as a new tool that can be used to probe the dynamic behavior of these interfaces during electrocatalysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara T. Hamilton
- Department
of Earth and Environmental Engineering, Columbia University, New York, New York 10027, United States
| | - Maria Kelly
- National
Renewable Energy Laboratory, Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
- Department
of Chemical and Biological Engineering and Renewable and Sustainable
Energy Institute, University of Colorado
Boulder, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
| | - Wilson A. Smith
- National
Renewable Energy Laboratory, Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
- Department
of Chemical and Biological Engineering and Renewable and Sustainable
Energy Institute, University of Colorado
Boulder, Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
| | - Ah-Hyung Alissa Park
- Department
of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90024, United States
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2
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Chen H, Mo P, Zhu J, Xu X, Cheng Z, Yang F, Xu Z, Liu J, Wang L. Anionic Coordination Control in Building Cu-Based Electrocatalytic Materials for CO 2 Reduction Reaction. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2400661. [PMID: 38597688 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202400661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Renewable energy-driven conversion of CO2 to value-added fuels and chemicals via electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) technology is regarded as a promising strategy with substantial environmental and economic benefits to achieve carbon neutrality. Because of its sluggish kinetics and complex reaction paths, developing robust catalytic materials with exceptional selectivity to the targeted products is one of the core issues, especially for extensively concerned Cu-based materials. Manipulating Cu species by anionic coordination is identified as an effective way to improve electrocatalytic performance, in terms of modulating active sites and regulating structural reconstruction. This review elaborates on recent discoveries and progress of Cu-based CO2RR catalytic materials enhanced by anionic coordination control, regarding reaction paths, functional mechanisms, and roles of different non-metallic anions in catalysis. Finally, the review concludes with some personal insights and provides challenges and perspectives on the utilization of this strategy to build desirable electrocatalysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanxia Chen
- MOE Key Laboratory of Resources and Environmental Systems Optimization, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, North China Electric Power University, Beijing, 102206, P. R. China
| | - Pengpeng Mo
- MOE Key Laboratory of Resources and Environmental Systems Optimization, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, North China Electric Power University, Beijing, 102206, P. R. China
| | - Junpeng Zhu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Resources and Environmental Systems Optimization, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, North China Electric Power University, Beijing, 102206, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoxue Xu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Resources and Environmental Systems Optimization, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, North China Electric Power University, Beijing, 102206, P. R. China
| | - Zhixiang Cheng
- MOE Key Laboratory of Resources and Environmental Systems Optimization, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, North China Electric Power University, Beijing, 102206, P. R. China
| | - Feng Yang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Resources and Environmental Systems Optimization, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, North China Electric Power University, Beijing, 102206, P. R. China
| | - Zhongfei Xu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Resources and Environmental Systems Optimization, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, North China Electric Power University, Beijing, 102206, P. R. China
| | - Juzhe Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Resources and Environmental Systems Optimization, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, North China Electric Power University, Beijing, 102206, P. R. China
| | - Lidong Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Resources and Environmental Systems Optimization, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, North China Electric Power University, Beijing, 102206, P. R. China
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3
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Wu H, Yu H, Chow YL, Webley PA, Zhang J. Toward Durable CO 2 Electroreduction with Cu-Based Catalysts via Understanding Their Deactivation Modes. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2403217. [PMID: 38845132 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202403217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
The technology of CO2 electrochemical reduction (CO2ER) provides a means to convert CO2, a waste greenhouse gas, into value-added chemicals. Copper is the most studied element that is capable of catalyzing CO2ER to obtain multicarbon products, such as ethylene, ethanol, acetate, etc., at an appreciable rate. Under the operating condition of CO2ER, the catalytic performance of Cu decays because of several factors that alters the surface properties of Cu. In this review, these factors that cause the degradation of Cu-based CO2ER catalysts are categorized into generalized deactivation modes, that are applicable to all electrocatalytic systems. The fundamental principles of each deactivation mode and the associated effects of each on Cu-based catalysts are discussed in detail. Structure- and composition-activity relationship developed from recent in situ/operando characterization studies are presented as evidence of related deactivation modes in operation. With the aim to address these deactivation modes, catalyst design and reaction environment engineering rationales are suggested. Finally, perspectives and remarks built upon the recent advances in CO2ER are provided in attempts to improve the durability of CO2ER catalysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsiwen Wu
- School of Chemistry, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Haoming Yu
- School of Chemistry, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering School, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330031, China
| | - Yuen-Leong Chow
- School of Chemistry, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Paul A Webley
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
- ARC Research Hub for Carbon Utilisation and Recycling, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Jie Zhang
- School of Chemistry, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
- ARC Research Hub for Carbon Utilisation and Recycling, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Green Electrochemical Transformation of Carbon Dioxide, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
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4
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Kok J, de Ruiter J, van der Stam W, Burdyny T. Interrogation of Oxidative Pulsed Methods for the Stabilization of Copper Electrodes for CO 2 Electrolysis. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:19509-19520. [PMID: 38967202 PMCID: PMC11258781 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c06284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
Using copper (Cu) as an electrocatalyst uniquely produces multicarbon products (C2+-products) during the CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR). However, the CO2RR stability of Cu is presently 3 orders of magnitude shorter than required for commercial operation. One means of substantially increasing Cu catalyst lifetimes is through periodic oxidative processes, such as cathodic-anodic pulsing. Despite 100-fold improvements, these oxidative methods only delay, but do not circumvent, degradation. Here, we provide an interrogation of chemical and electrochemical Cu oxidative processes to identify the mechanistic processes leading to stable CO2RR through electrochemical and in situ Raman spectroscopy measurements. We first examine chemical oxidation using an open-circuit potential (OCP), identifying that copper oxidation is regulated by the transient behavior of the OCP curve and limited by the rate of the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). Increasing O2 flux to the cathode subsequently increased ORR rates, both extending lifetimes and reducing "off" times by 3-fold. In a separate approach, the formation of Cu2O is achieved through electrochemical oxidation. Here, we establish the minimum electrode potentials required for fast Cu oxidation (-0.28 V vs Ag/AgCl, 1 M KHCO3) by accounting for transient local pH changes and tracking oxidation charge transfer. Lastly, we performed a stability test resulting in a 20-fold increase in stable ethylene production versus the continuous case, finding that spatial copper migration is slowed but not mitigated by oxidative pulsing approaches alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesse Kok
- Materials
for Energy Conversion and Storage (MECS), Department of Chemical Engineering,
Faculty of Applied Sciences, Delft University
of Technology, van der Maasweg 9, Delft, 2629 HZ, The Netherlands
| | - Jim de Ruiter
- Inorganic
Chemistry and Catalysis, Debye Institute for Nanomaterials Science
& Institute for Sustainable and Circular Chemistry, Utrecht University, Universiteitsweg 99, Utrecht, 3584 CG, The Netherlands
| | - Ward van der Stam
- Inorganic
Chemistry and Catalysis, Debye Institute for Nanomaterials Science
& Institute for Sustainable and Circular Chemistry, Utrecht University, Universiteitsweg 99, Utrecht, 3584 CG, The Netherlands
| | - Thomas Burdyny
- Materials
for Energy Conversion and Storage (MECS), Department of Chemical Engineering,
Faculty of Applied Sciences, Delft University
of Technology, van der Maasweg 9, Delft, 2629 HZ, The Netherlands
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5
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Zhang J, Xia S, Wang Y, Wu J, Wu Y. Recent advances in dynamic reconstruction of electrocatalysts for carbon dioxide reduction. iScience 2024; 27:110005. [PMID: 38846002 PMCID: PMC11154216 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.110005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Electrocatalysts undergo structural evolution under operating electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) conditions. This dynamic reconstruction correlates with variations in CO2RR activity, selectivity, and stability, posing challenges in catalyst design for electrochemical CO2RR. Despite increased research on the reconstruction behavior of CO2RR electrocatalysts, a comprehensive understanding of their dynamic structural evolution under reaction conditions is lacking. This review summarizes recent developments in the dynamic reconstruction of catalysts during the CO2RR process, covering fundamental principles, modulation strategies, and in situ/operando characterizations. It aims to enhance understanding of electrocatalyst dynamic reconstruction, offering guidelines for the rational design of CO2RR electrocatalysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianfang Zhang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45221, USA
| | - Shuai Xia
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China
| | - Yan Wang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China
- Institute of Energy, Hefei Comprehensive National Science Center (Anhui Energy Laboratory), Hefei 230009, China
| | - Jingjie Wu
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45221, USA
| | - Yucheng Wu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Functional Materials and Devices of Anhui Province, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China
- China International S&T Cooperation Base for Advanced Energy and Environmental Materials & Anhui Provincial International S&T Cooperation Base for Advanced Energy Materials, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China
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6
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Xu YN, Mei B, Xu Q, Fu HQ, Zhang XY, Liu PF, Jiang Z, Yang HG. In situ/Operando Synchrotron Radiation Analytical Techniques for CO 2/CO Reduction Reaction: From Atomic Scales to Mesoscales. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202404213. [PMID: 38600431 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202404213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Electrocatalytic carbon dioxide/carbon monoxide reduction reaction (CO(2)RR) has emerged as a prospective and appealing strategy to realize carbon neutrality for manufacturing sustainable chemical products. Developing highly active electrocatalysts and stable devices has been demonstrated as effective approach to enhance the conversion efficiency of CO(2)RR. In order to rationally design electrocatalysts and devices, a comprehensive understanding of the intrinsic structure evolution within catalysts and micro-environment change around electrode interface, particularly under operation conditions, is indispensable. Synchrotron radiation has been recognized as a versatile characterization platform, garnering widespread attention owing to its high brightness, elevated flux, excellent directivity, strong polarization and exceptional stability. This review systematically introduces the applications of synchrotron radiation technologies classified by radiation sources with varying wavelengths in CO(2)RR. By virtue of in situ/operando synchrotron radiationanalytical techniques, we also summarize relevant dynamic evolution processes from electronic structure, atomic configuration, molecular adsorption, crystal lattice and devices, spanning scales from the angstrom to the micrometer. The merits and limitations of diverse synchrotron characterization techniques are summarized, and their applicable scenarios in CO(2)RR are further presented. On the basis of the state-of-the-art fourth-generation synchrotron facilities, a perspective for further deeper understanding of the CO(2)RR process using synchrotron radiation analytical techniques is proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Ning Xu
- Key Laboratory for Ultrafine Materials of Ministry of Education, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Hierarchical Nanomaterials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Meilong Road, Shanghai, 200237, P. R. China
| | - Bingbao Mei
- Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Science, Shanghai, 201800, P. R. China
| | - Qiucheng Xu
- Surface Physics and Catalysis (Surf Cat) Section, Department of Physics, Technical University of Denmark, 2800, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Huai Qin Fu
- Center for Catalysis and Clean Energy, Gold Coast Campus, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD 4222, Australia
| | - Xin Yu Zhang
- Key Laboratory for Ultrafine Materials of Ministry of Education, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Hierarchical Nanomaterials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Meilong Road, Shanghai, 200237, P. R. China
| | - Peng Fei Liu
- Key Laboratory for Ultrafine Materials of Ministry of Education, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Hierarchical Nanomaterials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Meilong Road, Shanghai, 200237, P. R. China
| | - Zheng Jiang
- National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230029, P. R. China
| | - Hua Gui Yang
- Key Laboratory for Ultrafine Materials of Ministry of Education, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Hierarchical Nanomaterials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Meilong Road, Shanghai, 200237, P. R. China
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7
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Liu S, Li Y, Wang D, Xi S, Xu H, Wang Y, Li X, Zang W, Liu W, Su M, Yan K, Nielander AC, Wong AB, Lu J, Jaramillo TF, Wang L, Canepa P, He Q. Alkali cation-induced cathodic corrosion in Cu electrocatalysts. Nat Commun 2024; 15:5080. [PMID: 38871724 PMCID: PMC11176167 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49492-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
The reconstruction of Cu catalysts during electrochemical reduction of CO2 is a widely known but poorly understood phenomenon. Herein, we examine the structural evolution of Cu nanocubes under CO2 reduction reaction and its relevant reaction conditions using identical location transmission electron microscopy, cyclic voltammetry, in situ X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy and ab initio molecular dynamics simulation. Our results suggest that Cu catalysts reconstruct via a hitherto unexplored yet critical pathway - alkali cation-induced cathodic corrosion, when the electrode potential is more negative than an onset value (e.g., -0.4 VRHE when using 0.1 M KHCO3). Having alkali cations in the electrolyte is critical for such a process. Consequently, Cu catalysts will inevitably undergo surface reconstructions during a typical process of CO2 reduction reaction, resulting in dynamic catalyst morphologies. While having these reconstructions does not necessarily preclude stable electrocatalytic reactions, they will indeed prohibit long-term selectivity and activity enhancement by controlling the morphology of Cu pre-catalysts. Alternatively, by operating Cu catalysts at less negative potentials in the CO electrochemical reduction, we show that Cu nanocubes can provide a much more stable selectivity advantage over spherical Cu nanoparticles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shikai Liu
- Department of Material Science and Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 9 Engineering Drive 1, EA #03-09, Singapore, 117575, Singapore
| | - Yuheng Li
- Department of Material Science and Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 9 Engineering Drive 1, EA #03-09, Singapore, 117575, Singapore
| | - Di Wang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 4 Engineering Drive 4, E5 #02-29, Singapore, 117585, Singapore
| | - Shibo Xi
- Institute of Sustainability for Chemicals, Energy and Environment (ISCE2), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 1 Pesek Road Jurong Island, Singapore, 627833, Singapore.
| | - Haoming Xu
- Department of Chemistry, National University of Singapore, 12 Science Drive 3, Singapore, 117543, Singapore
| | - Yulin Wang
- Department of Chemistry, National University of Singapore, 12 Science Drive 3, Singapore, 117543, Singapore
| | - Xinzhe Li
- Department of Material Science and Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 9 Engineering Drive 1, EA #03-09, Singapore, 117575, Singapore
| | - Wenjie Zang
- Department of Material Science and Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 9 Engineering Drive 1, EA #03-09, Singapore, 117575, Singapore
| | - Weidong Liu
- Department of Material Science and Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 9 Engineering Drive 1, EA #03-09, Singapore, 117575, Singapore
| | - Mengyao Su
- Department of Material Science and Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 9 Engineering Drive 1, EA #03-09, Singapore, 117575, Singapore
| | - Katherine Yan
- SUNCAT Center for Interface Science and Catalysis, Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Adam C Nielander
- SUNCAT Center for Interface Science and Catalysis, Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Andrew B Wong
- Department of Material Science and Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 9 Engineering Drive 1, EA #03-09, Singapore, 117575, Singapore
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 4 Engineering Drive 4, E5 #02-29, Singapore, 117585, Singapore
- Centre for Hydrogen Innovations, National University of Singapore, E8, 1 Engineering Drive 3, Singapore, 117580, Singapore
| | - Jiong Lu
- Department of Chemistry, National University of Singapore, 12 Science Drive 3, Singapore, 117543, Singapore
- Centre for Hydrogen Innovations, National University of Singapore, E8, 1 Engineering Drive 3, Singapore, 117580, Singapore
| | - Thomas F Jaramillo
- SUNCAT Center for Interface Science and Catalysis, Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- SUNCAT Center for Interface Science and Catalysis, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Menlo Park, CA, 94025, USA
| | - Lei Wang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 4 Engineering Drive 4, E5 #02-29, Singapore, 117585, Singapore.
- Centre for Hydrogen Innovations, National University of Singapore, E8, 1 Engineering Drive 3, Singapore, 117580, Singapore.
| | - Pieremanuele Canepa
- Department of Material Science and Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 9 Engineering Drive 1, EA #03-09, Singapore, 117575, Singapore.
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 4 Engineering Drive 4, E5 #02-29, Singapore, 117585, Singapore.
| | - Qian He
- Department of Material Science and Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 9 Engineering Drive 1, EA #03-09, Singapore, 117575, Singapore.
- Centre for Hydrogen Innovations, National University of Singapore, E8, 1 Engineering Drive 3, Singapore, 117580, Singapore.
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8
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Zhang Z, Gee W, Sautet P, Alexandrova AN. H and CO Co-Induced Roughening of Cu Surface in CO 2 Electroreduction Conditions. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:16119-16127. [PMID: 38815275 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c03515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
The dynamic restructuring of Cu has been observed under electrochemical conditions, and it has been hypothesized to underlie the unique reactivity of Cu toward CO2 electroreduction. Roughening is one of the key surface phenomena for Cu activation, whereby numerous atomic vacancies and adatoms form. However, the atomic structure of such surface motifs in the presence of relevant adsorbates has remained elusive. Here, we explore the chemical space of Cu surface restructuring under coverage of CO and H in realistic electroreduction conditions, by combining grand canonical DFT and global optimization techniques, from which we construct a potential-dependent grand canonical ensemble representation. The regime of intermediate and mixed CO and H coverage─where structures exhibit some elevated surface Cu─is thermodynamically unfavorable yet kinetically inevitable. Therefore, we develop a quasi-kinetic Monte Carlo simulation to track the system's evolution during a simulated cathodic scan. We reveal the evolution path of the system across coverage space and identify the accessible metastable structures formed along the way. Chemical bonding analysis is performed on the metastable structures with elevated Cu*CO species to understand their formation mechanism. By molecular dynamics simulations and free energy calculations, the surface chemistry of the Cu*CO species is explored, and we identify plausible mechanisms via which the Cu*CO species may diffuse or dimerize. This work provides rich atomistic insights into the phenomenon of surface roughening and the structure of involved species. It also features generalizable methods to explore the chemical space of restructuring surfaces with mixed adsorbates and their nonequilibrium evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zisheng Zhang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90094, United States
| | - Winston Gee
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90094, United States
| | - Philippe Sautet
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90094, United States
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90094, United States
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90094, United States
| | - Anastassia N Alexandrova
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90094, United States
- California NanoSystems Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90094, United States
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90094, United States
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9
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Wang X, Ju W, Liang L, Riyaz M, Bagger A, Filippi M, Rossmeisl J, Strasser P. Electrochemical CO 2 Activation and Valorization on Metallic Copper and Carbon-Embedded N-Coordinated Single Metal MNC Catalysts. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202401821. [PMID: 38467562 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202401821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
The electrochemical reductive valorization of CO2, referred to as the CO2RR, is an emerging approach for the conversion of CO2-containing feeds into valuable carbonaceous fuels and chemicals, with potential contributions to carbon capture and use (CCU) for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Copper surfaces and graphene-embedded, N-coordinated single metal atom (MNC) catalysts exhibit distinctive reactivity, attracting attention as efficient electrocatalysts for CO2RR. This review offers a comparative analysis of CO2RR on copper surfaces and MNC catalysts, highlighting their unique characteristics in terms of CO2 activation, C1/C2(+) product formation, and the competing hydrogen evolution pathway. The assessment underscores the significance of understanding structure-activity relationships to optimize catalyst design for efficient and selective CO2RR. Examining detailed reaction mechanisms and structure-selectivity patterns, the analysis explores recent insights into changes in the chemical catalyst states, atomic motif rearrangements, and fractal agglomeration, providing essential kinetic information from advanced in/ex situ microscopy/spectroscopy techniques. At the end, this review addresses future challenges and solutions related to today's disconnect between our current molecular understanding of structure-activity-selectivity relations in CO2RR and the relevant factors controlling the performance of CO2 electrolyzers over longer times, with larger electrode sizes, and at higher current densities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingli Wang
- Department of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering Division, Technical University of Berlin, Straße des 17. June 124, 10623, Berlin, Germany
| | - Wen Ju
- Department of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering Division, Technical University of Berlin, Straße des 17. June 124, 10623, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Electrochemistry and Catalysis, Leibniz Institute for Catalysis, 18059, Rostock
| | - Liang Liang
- Department of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering Division, Technical University of Berlin, Straße des 17. June 124, 10623, Berlin, Germany
| | - Mohd Riyaz
- Department of Physics, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Alexander Bagger
- Department of Physics, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Michael Filippi
- Department of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering Division, Technical University of Berlin, Straße des 17. June 124, 10623, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jan Rossmeisl
- Department of Chemistry, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Peter Strasser
- Department of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering Division, Technical University of Berlin, Straße des 17. June 124, 10623, Berlin, Germany
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10
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Su S, Zhao J, Ly TH. Scanning Probe Microscopies for Characterizations of 2D Materials. SMALL METHODS 2024:e2400211. [PMID: 38766949 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202400211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
2D materials are intriguing due to their remarkably thin and flat structure. This unique configuration allows the majority of their constituent atoms to be accessible on the surface, facilitating easier electron tunneling while generating weak surface forces. To decipher the subtle signals inherent in these materials, the application of techniques that offer atomic resolution (horizontal) and sub-Angstrom (z-height vertical) sensitivity is crucial. Scanning probe microscopy (SPM) emerges as the quintessential tool in this regard, owing to its atomic-level spatial precision, ability to detect unitary charges, responsiveness to pico-newton-scale forces, and capability to discern pico-ampere currents. Furthermore, the versatility of SPM to operate under varying environmental conditions, such as different temperatures and in the presence of various gases or liquids, opens up the possibility of studying the stability and reactivity of 2D materials in situ. The characteristic flatness, surface accessibility, ultra-thinness, and weak signal strengths of 2D materials align perfectly with the capabilities of SPM technologies, enabling researchers to uncover the nuanced behaviors and properties of these advanced materials at the nanoscale and even the atomic scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaoqiang Su
- Department of Chemistry and Center of Super-Diamond & Advanced Films (COSDAF), City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, 999077, China
| | - Jiong Zhao
- Department of Applied Physics, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, China
| | - Thuc Hue Ly
- Department of Chemistry and Center of Super-Diamond & Advanced Films (COSDAF), City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, 999077, China
- Department of Chemistry and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
- City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518057, China
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11
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Yu H, Govindarajan N, Weitzner SE, Serra-Maia RF, Akhade SA, Varley JB. Theoretical Investigation of the Adsorbate and Potential-Induced Stability of Cu Facets During Electrochemical CO 2 and CO Reduction. Chemphyschem 2024; 25:e202300959. [PMID: 38409629 DOI: 10.1002/cphc.202300959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
The activity and product selectivity of electrocatalysts for reactions like the carbon dioxide reduction reaction (CO2RR) are intimately dependent on the catalyst's structure and composition. While engineering catalytic surfaces can improve performance, discovering the key sets of rational design principles remains challenging due to limitations in modeling catalyst stability under operating conditions. Herein, we perform first-principles density functional calculations adopting implicit solvation methods with potential control to study the influence of adsorbates and applied potential on the stability of different facets of model Cu electrocatalysts. Using coverage dependencies extracted from microkinetic models, we describe an approach for calculating potential and adsorbate-dependent contributions to surface energies under reaction conditions, where Wulff constructions are used to understand the morphological evolution of Cu electrocatalysts under CO2RR conditions. We identify that CO*, a key reaction intermediate, exhibits higher kinetically and thermodynamically accessible coverages on (100) relative to (111) facets, which can translate into an increased relative stabilization of the (100) facet during CO2RR. Our results support the known tendency for increased (111) faceting of Cu nanoparticles under more reducing conditions and that the relative increase in (100) faceting observed under CO2RR conditions is likely attributed to differences in CO* coverage between these facets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry Yu
- Materials Science Division, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, 94550, USA
- Laboratory for Energy Applications for the Future, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, 94550, USA
| | - Nitish Govindarajan
- Materials Science Division, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, 94550, USA
- Laboratory for Energy Applications for the Future, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, 94550, USA
| | - Stephen E Weitzner
- Materials Science Division, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, 94550, USA
- Laboratory for Energy Applications for the Future, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, 94550, USA
| | - Rui F Serra-Maia
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Sneha A Akhade
- Materials Science Division, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, 94550, USA
- Laboratory for Energy Applications for the Future, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, 94550, USA
| | - Joel B Varley
- Materials Science Division, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, 94550, USA
- Laboratory for Energy Applications for the Future, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, 94550, USA
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12
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Yu M, Sui PF, Tang YF, Zhang T, Liu S, Fu XZ, Luo JL, Liu S. Visualizing Electrochemical CO 2 Conversion via the Emerging Scanning Electrochemical Microscope: Fundamentals, Applications and Perspectives. SMALL METHODS 2024:e2301778. [PMID: 38741551 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202301778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
With the rapid development and maturity of electrochemical CO2 conversion involving cathodic CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) and anodic oxygen evolution reaction (OER), conventional ex situ characterizations gradually fall behind in detecting real-time products distribution, tracking intermediates, and monitoring structural evolution, etc. Nevertheless, advanced in situ techniques, with intriguing merits like good reproducibility, facile operability, high sensitivity, and short response time, can realize in situ detection and recording of dynamic data, and observe materials structural evolution in real time. As an emerging visual technique, scanning electrochemical microscope (SECM) presents local electrochemical signals on various materials surface through capturing micro-current caused by reactants oxidation and reduction. Importantly, SECM holds particular potentials in visualizing reactive intermediates at active sites and obtaining instantaneous morphology evolution images to reveal the intrinsic reactivity of active sites. Therefore, this review focuses on SECM fundamentals and its specific applications toward CO2RR and OER, mainly including electrochemical behavior observation on local regions of various materials, target products and onset potentials identification in real-time, reaction pathways clarification, reaction kinetics exploration under steady-state conditions, electroactive materials screening and multi-techniques coupling for a joint utilization. This review undoubtedly provides a leading guidance to extend various SECM applications to other energy-related fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mulin Yu
- School of Minerals Processing and Bioengineering, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410083, China
| | - Peng-Fei Sui
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 1H9, Canada
| | - Yu-Feng Tang
- School of Minerals Processing and Bioengineering, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410083, China
| | - Tong Zhang
- School of Minerals Processing and Bioengineering, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410083, China
| | - Shuo Liu
- School of Minerals Processing and Bioengineering, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410083, China
| | - Xian-Zhu Fu
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518060, China
| | - Jing-Li Luo
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 1H9, Canada
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518060, China
| | - Subiao Liu
- School of Minerals Processing and Bioengineering, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410083, China
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13
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Penot C, Maniam KK, Paul S. Electrochemical Characterization of Electrodeposited Copper in Amine CO 2 Capture Media. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 17:1825. [PMID: 38673182 PMCID: PMC11051279 DOI: 10.3390/ma17081825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
This study explores the stability of electrodeposited copper catalysts utilized in electrochemical CO2 reduction (ECR) across various amine media. The focus is on understanding the influence of different amine types, corrosion ramifications, and the efficacy of pulse ECR methodologies. Employing a suite of electrochemical techniques including potentiodynamic polarization, linear resistance polarization, cyclic voltammetry, and chronopotentiometry, the investigation reveals useful insights. The findings show that among the tested amines, CO2-rich monoethanolamine (MEA) exhibits the highest corrosion rate. However, in most cases, the rates remain within tolerable limits for ECR operations. Primary amines, notably monoethanolamine (MEA), show enhanced compatibility with ECR processes, attributable to their resistance against carbonate salt precipitation and sustained stability over extended durations. Conversely, tertiary amines such as methyldiethanolamine (MDEA) present challenges due to the formation of carbonate salts during ECR, impeding their effective utilization. This study highlights the effectiveness of pulse ECR strategies in stabilizing ECR. A noticeable shift in cathodic potential and reduced deposit formation on the catalyst surface through periodic oxidation underscores the efficacy of such strategies. These findings offer insights for optimizing ECR in amine media, thereby providing promising pathways for advancements in CO2 emission reduction technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corentin Penot
- Materials Innovation Centre, School of Engineering, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK; (C.P.); (K.K.M.)
| | - Kranthi Kumar Maniam
- Materials Innovation Centre, School of Engineering, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK; (C.P.); (K.K.M.)
| | - Shiladitya Paul
- Materials Innovation Centre, School of Engineering, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK; (C.P.); (K.K.M.)
- Materials Performance and Integrity Technology Group, TWI, Cambridge CB21 6AL, UK
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14
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Pastor E, Lian Z, Xia L, Ecija D, Galán-Mascarós JR, Barja S, Giménez S, Arbiol J, López N, García de Arquer FP. Complementary probes for the electrochemical interface. Nat Rev Chem 2024; 8:159-178. [PMID: 38388837 DOI: 10.1038/s41570-024-00575-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
The functions of electrochemical energy conversion and storage devices rely on the dynamic junction between a solid and a fluid: the electrochemical interface (EI). Many experimental techniques have been developed to probe the EI, but they provide only a partial picture. Building a full mechanistic understanding requires combining multiple probes, either successively or simultaneously. However, such combinations lead to important technical and theoretical challenges. In this Review, we focus on complementary optoelectronic probes and modelling to address the EI across different timescales and spatial scales - including mapping surface reconstruction, reactants and reaction modulators during operation. We discuss how combining these probes can facilitate a predictive design of the EI when closely integrated with theory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ernest Pastor
- CNRS, IPR (Institut de Physique de Rennes), University of Rennes, Rennes, France.
- CNRS, Univ Rennes, DYNACOM (Dynamical Control of Materials Laboratory) - IRL2015, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Zan Lian
- ICIQ-Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia, The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Tarragona, Spain
| | - Lu Xia
- ICFO-Institut de Ciències Fotòniques, The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
| | - David Ecija
- IMDEA Nanoscience, Campus Universitario de Cantoblanco, Madrid, Spain
| | - José Ramón Galán-Mascarós
- ICIQ-Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia, The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Tarragona, Spain
- ICREA, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sara Barja
- Department of Polymers and Advanced Materials, Centro de Física de Materiales (CFM), University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, San Sebastián, Spain
- Donostia International Physics Center (DIPC), San Sebastián, Spain
- IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Sixto Giménez
- Institute of Advanced Materials (INAM) Universitat Jaume I, Castelló, Spain
| | - Jordi Arbiol
- ICREA, Barcelona, Spain
- Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2), CSIC and BIST, Campus UAB, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Núria López
- ICIQ-Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia, The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Tarragona, Spain
| | - F Pelayo García de Arquer
- ICFO-Institut de Ciències Fotòniques, The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain.
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15
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Banerji LC, Jang H, Gardner AM, Cowan AJ. Studying the cation dependence of CO 2 reduction intermediates at Cu by in situ VSFG spectroscopy. Chem Sci 2024; 15:2889-2897. [PMID: 38404396 PMCID: PMC10882457 DOI: 10.1039/d3sc05295h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The nature of the electrolyte cation is known to have a significant impact on electrochemical reduction of CO2 at catalyst|electrolyte interfaces. An understanding of the underlying mechanism responsible for catalytic enhancement as the alkali metal cation group is descended is key to guide catalyst development. Here, we use in situ vibrational sum frequency generation (VSFG) spectroscopy to monitor changes in the binding modes of the CO intermediate at the electrochemical interface of a polycrystalline Cu electrode during CO2 reduction as the electrolyte cation is varied. A CObridge mode is observed only when using Cs+, a cation that is known to facilitate CO2 reduction on Cu, supporting the proposed involvement of CObridge sites in CO coupling mechanisms during CO2 reduction. Ex situ measurements show that the cation dependent CObridge modes correlate with morphological changes of the Cu surface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liam C Banerji
- Department of Chemistry, Stephenson Institute for Renewable Energy, University of Liverpool Liverpool UK
| | - Hansaem Jang
- Department of Chemistry, Stephenson Institute for Renewable Energy, University of Liverpool Liverpool UK
| | - Adrian M Gardner
- Department of Chemistry, Stephenson Institute for Renewable Energy, University of Liverpool Liverpool UK
- Early Career Laser Laboratory, University of Liverpool Liverpool UK
| | - Alexander J Cowan
- Department of Chemistry, Stephenson Institute for Renewable Energy, University of Liverpool Liverpool UK
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16
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Liu Q, Jiang Q, Li L, Yang W. Spontaneous Reconstruction of Copper Active Sites during the Alkaline CORR: Degradation and Recovery of the Performance. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:4242-4251. [PMID: 38300828 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c14129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Understanding the reconstruction of electrocatalysts under operational conditions is essential for studying their catalytic mechanisms and industrial applications. Herein, using spatiotemporally resolved Raman spectroscopy with CO as a probe molecule, we resolved the spontaneous reconstruction of Cu active sites during cathodic CO reduction reactions (CORRs). Quasi-in situ focused ion beam transmission electron microscopy (FIB-TEM) revealed that under prolonged electrolysis, the Cu surface can reconstruct to form nanometer-sized Cu particles with (111)/(100) facets and abundant grain boundaries, which strongly favor the formation of an inactive *CObridge binding site and deteriorate the CORR performance. A short period of anodic oxidation can efficiently remove these reconstructed nanoparticles by quick dissolution of Cu, thus providing an effective strategy to regenerate the Cu catalysts and recover their CORR performance. This study provides real-time in situ observations of Cu reconstruction and changes in the binding of key reaction intermediates, highlighting the decisive role of the local active site, rather than the macroscopic morphology, on adsorption of key reaction intermediates and thus CORR performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiliang Liu
- Center of Artificial Photosynthesis for Solar Fuels and Department of Chemistry, School of Science and Research Center for Industries of the Future, Westlake University, 600 Dunyu Road, Hangzhou 310030,Zhejiang, China
- Institute of Natural Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang, China
- Division of Solar Energy Conversion and Catalysis at Westlake University, Zhejiang Baima Lake Laboratory Co., Ltd., Hangzhou 310000, Zhejiang,China
| | - Qike Jiang
- Instrumentation and Service Center for Physical Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ling Li
- Center of Artificial Photosynthesis for Solar Fuels and Department of Chemistry, School of Science and Research Center for Industries of the Future, Westlake University, 600 Dunyu Road, Hangzhou 310030,Zhejiang, China
- Institute of Natural Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang, China
- Division of Solar Energy Conversion and Catalysis at Westlake University, Zhejiang Baima Lake Laboratory Co., Ltd., Hangzhou 310000, Zhejiang,China
| | - Wenxing Yang
- Center of Artificial Photosynthesis for Solar Fuels and Department of Chemistry, School of Science and Research Center for Industries of the Future, Westlake University, 600 Dunyu Road, Hangzhou 310030,Zhejiang, China
- Institute of Natural Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang, China
- Division of Solar Energy Conversion and Catalysis at Westlake University, Zhejiang Baima Lake Laboratory Co., Ltd., Hangzhou 310000, Zhejiang,China
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17
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Yao Y, Shi T, Chen W, Wu J, Fan Y, Liu Y, Cao L, Chen Z. A surface strategy boosting the ethylene selectivity for CO 2 reduction and in situ mechanistic insights. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1257. [PMID: 38341442 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45704-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide into ethylene, as opposed to traditional industrial methods, represents a more environmentally friendly and promising technical approach. However, achieving high activity of ethylene remains a huge challenge due to the numerous possible reaction pathways. Here, we construct a hierarchical nanoelectrode composed of CuO treated with dodecanethiol to achieve elevated ethylene activity with a Faradaic efficiency reaching 79.5%. Through on in situ investigations, it is observed that dodecanethiol modification not only facilitates CO2 transfer and enhances *CO coverage on the catalyst surfaces, but also stabilizes Cu(100) facet. Density functional theory calculations of activation energy barriers of the asymmetrical C-C coupling between *CO and *CHO further support that the greatly increased selectivity of ethylene is attributed to the thiol-stabilized Cu(100). Our findings not only provide an effective strategy to design and construct Cu-based catalysts for highly selective CO2 to ethylene, but also offer deep insights into the mechanism of CO2 to ethylene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinchao Yao
- Energy & Catalysis Center, Department of Materials Physics and Chemistry, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, 100081, Beijing, PR China
| | - Tong Shi
- Institute of Catalysis, Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, Zhejiang, PR China
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Chemistry and Physics of Rare Earth Materials, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, 010021, PR China
| | - Wenxing Chen
- Energy & Catalysis Center, Department of Materials Physics and Chemistry, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, 100081, Beijing, PR China
| | - Jiehua Wu
- SINOPEC (Beijing) Research Institute of Chemical Industry Co., Ltd, 100013, Beijing, PR China
| | - Yunying Fan
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650093, PR China
| | - Yichun Liu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, 650093, PR China
| | - Liang Cao
- Institute of Catalysis, Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, Zhejiang, PR China.
| | - Zhuo Chen
- Energy & Catalysis Center, Department of Materials Physics and Chemistry, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, 100081, Beijing, PR China.
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18
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Peng Y, Zhan C, Jeon HS, Frandsen W, Cuenya BR, Kley CS. Organic Thin Films Enable Retaining the Oxidation State of Copper Catalysts during CO 2 Electroreduction. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:6562-6568. [PMID: 38273704 PMCID: PMC10859887 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c14554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
A key challenge in electrocatalysis remains controlling a catalyst's structural, chemical, and electrical properties under reaction conditions. While organic coatings showed promise for enhancing the selectivity and stability of catalysts for CO2 electroreduction (CO2RR), their impact on the chemical state of underlying metal electrodes has remained unclear. In this study, we show that organic thin films on polycrystalline copper (Cu) enable retaining Cu+ species at reducing potentials down to -1.0 V vs RHE, as evidenced by operando Raman and quasi in situ X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. In situ electrochemical atomic force microscopy revealed the integrity of the porous organic film and nearly unaltered Cu electrode morphology. While the pristine thin film enhances the CO2-to-ethylene conversion, the addition of organic modifiers into electrolytes gives rise to improved CO2RR performance stability. Our findings showcase hybrid metal-organic systems as a versatile approach to control, beyond morphology and local environment, the oxidation states of catalysts and energy conversion materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujie Peng
- Helmholtz
Young Investigator Group Nanoscale Operando CO2 Photo-Electrocatalysis, Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und
Energie GmbH, 14109 Berlin, Germany
- Department
of Interface Science, Fritz Haber Institute
of the Max Planck Society, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Chao Zhan
- Department
of Interface Science, Fritz Haber Institute
of the Max Planck Society, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Hyo Sang Jeon
- Department
of Interface Science, Fritz Haber Institute
of the Max Planck Society, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Wiebke Frandsen
- Department
of Interface Science, Fritz Haber Institute
of the Max Planck Society, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Beatriz Roldan Cuenya
- Department
of Interface Science, Fritz Haber Institute
of the Max Planck Society, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Christopher S. Kley
- Helmholtz
Young Investigator Group Nanoscale Operando CO2 Photo-Electrocatalysis, Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und
Energie GmbH, 14109 Berlin, Germany
- Department
of Interface Science, Fritz Haber Institute
of the Max Planck Society, 14195 Berlin, Germany
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19
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Couce PM, Madsen TK, Plaza-Mayoral E, Kristoffersen HH, Chorkendorff I, Dalby KN, van der Stam W, Rossmeisl J, Escudero-Escribano M, Sebastián-Pascual P. Tailoring the facet distribution on copper with chloride. Chem Sci 2024; 15:1714-1725. [PMID: 38303937 PMCID: PMC10829013 DOI: 10.1039/d3sc05988j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Electrocatalytic reactions are sensitive to the catalyst surface structure. Therefore, finding methods to determine active surface sites with different geometry is essential to address the structure-electrocatalytic performance relationships. In this work, we propose a simple methodology to tune and quantify the surface structure on copper catalysts. We tailor the distribution and ratio of facets on copper by electrochemically oxidizing and reducing the surface in chloride-rich aqueous solutions. We then address the formation of new facets with voltammetric lead (Pb) underpotential deposition (UPD). We first record the voltammetric lead UPD on different single facets, which have intense peaks at different potential values. We use this data to decouple each facet peak-contribution in the lead (Pb) UPD curves of the tailored and multifaceted copper surfaces and determine the geometry of the active sites. We combine experiments with density functional theory (DFT) calculations to assess the ligand effect of chloride anions on the copper facet distribution during the surface oxidation/electrodeposition treatment. Our experiments and Wulff constructions suggest that chloride preferentially adsorbs on the (310) facet, reducing the number of (111) sites and inducing the growth of (310) or n(100) × (110) domains. Our work provides a tool to correlate active sites with copper geometries, which is needed to assess the structure-performance relationships in electrocatalysis. We also demonstrate an easy method for selectively tailoring the facet distribution of copper, which is essential to design a well-defined nanostructured catalyst.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Mazaira Couce
- Department of Chemistry, Center for High Entropy Catalysis (CHEAC), University of Copenhagen Universitetsparken 5 2100 Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Thor Kongstad Madsen
- Department of Chemistry, Center for High Entropy Catalysis (CHEAC), University of Copenhagen Universitetsparken 5 2100 Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Elena Plaza-Mayoral
- Department of Chemistry, Center for High Entropy Catalysis (CHEAC), University of Copenhagen Universitetsparken 5 2100 Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Henrik H Kristoffersen
- Department of Chemistry, Center for High Entropy Catalysis (CHEAC), University of Copenhagen Universitetsparken 5 2100 Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Ib Chorkendorff
- Department of Physics, Surface Physics and Catalysis, Technical University of Denmark Fysikvej DK-2800 Lyngby Denmark
| | | | - Ward van der Stam
- Utrecht University, Inorganic Chemistry and Catalysis, Debye Institute for Nanomaterials Science Netherlands
| | - Jan Rossmeisl
- Department of Chemistry, Center for High Entropy Catalysis (CHEAC), University of Copenhagen Universitetsparken 5 2100 Copenhagen Denmark
| | - María Escudero-Escribano
- Department of Chemistry, Center for High Entropy Catalysis (CHEAC), University of Copenhagen Universitetsparken 5 2100 Copenhagen Denmark
- Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2), CSIC, Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology UAB Campus, 08193 Bellaterra Barcelona Spain
- ICREA Pg. Lluís Companys 23 08010 Barcelona Spain
| | - Paula Sebastián-Pascual
- Department of Chemistry, Center for High Entropy Catalysis (CHEAC), University of Copenhagen Universitetsparken 5 2100 Copenhagen Denmark
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20
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Winkler D, Leitner M, Auer A, Kunze-Liebhäuser J. The Relevance of the Interfacial Water Reactivity for Electrochemical CO Reduction on Copper Single Crystals. ACS Catal 2024; 14:1098-1106. [PMID: 38269043 PMCID: PMC10806897 DOI: 10.1021/acscatal.3c02700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
The electrochemical reduction of CO2 is an important electrolysis reaction that enables the conversion of a waste gas to fuels or value-added chemicals. To make this reaction viable, a profound understanding of central intermediate steps, such as the CO electroreduction, is required. On Cu, the CO reduction reaction (CORR) is intimately linked to the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) that proceeds via the reduction of water in alkaline or neutral electrolytes. Here, we demonstrate that the interaction of water or more specifically the water reduction kinetics on differently smooth Cu(100) and Cu(111) surfaces during the CORR in alkaline media significantly governs the CORR. On Cu(111), faster HER kinetics and the highest CORR activity are observed, even though HER and CORR onsets are more negative. While on Cu(100) small Cu ad-island clusters form in the cathodic potential range only when CO is present, structural changes appear on a larger length scale on Cu(111) both under CORR conditions and when no CO is present. These differences in the reconstruction characteristics may be attributed to the dominance of either the CORR and its intermediates or the HER on the different Cu surfaces. Therefore, the interfacial water reactivity is considered an essential activity descriptor for the CORR on Cu in alkaline media.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Winkler
- Department
of Physical Chemistry, University of Innsbruck, Innrain 52c, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Matthias Leitner
- Department
of Physical Chemistry, University of Innsbruck, Innrain 52c, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Andrea Auer
- Department
of Physical Chemistry, University of Innsbruck, Innrain 52c, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Julia Kunze-Liebhäuser
- Department
of Physical Chemistry, University of Innsbruck, Innrain 52c, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
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21
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Deng T, Jia S, Chen C, Jiao J, Chen X, Xue C, Xia W, Xing X, Zhu Q, Wu H, He M, Han B. Polymer Modification Strategy to Modulate Reaction Microenvironment for Enhanced CO 2 Electroreduction to Ethylene. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202313796. [PMID: 38015565 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202313796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Modulation of the microenvironment on the electrode surface is one of the effective means to improve the efficiency of electrocatalytic carbon dioxide reduction (eCO2 RR). To achieve high conversion rates, the phase boundary at the electrode surface should be finely controlled to overcome the limitation of CO2 solubility in the aqueous electrolyte. Herein, we developed a simple and efficient method to structure electrocatalyst with a superhydrophobic surface microenvironment by one-step co-electrodeposition of Cu and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) on carbon paper. The super-hydrophobic Cu-based electrode displayed a high ethylene (C2 H4 ) selectivity with a Faraday efficiency (FE) of 67.3 % at -1.25 V vs. reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) in an H-type cell, which is 2.5 times higher than a regular Cu electrode without PTFE. By using PTFE as a surface modifier, the activity of eCO2 RR is enhanced and water (proton) adsorption is inhibited. This strategy has the potential to be applied to other gas-conversion electrocatalysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Deng
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry and Chemical Processes, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China
- Institute of Eco-Chongming, 20 Cuiniao Road, Chenjia Town, Chongming District, Shanghai, 202162, China
| | - Shuaiqiang Jia
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry and Chemical Processes, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China
- Institute of Eco-Chongming, 20 Cuiniao Road, Chenjia Town, Chongming District, Shanghai, 202162, China
| | - Chunjun Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry and Chemical Processes, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China
- Institute of Eco-Chongming, 20 Cuiniao Road, Chenjia Town, Chongming District, Shanghai, 202162, China
| | - Jiapeng Jiao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry and Chemical Processes, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China
- Institute of Eco-Chongming, 20 Cuiniao Road, Chenjia Town, Chongming District, Shanghai, 202162, China
| | - Xiao Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry and Chemical Processes, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China
- Institute of Eco-Chongming, 20 Cuiniao Road, Chenjia Town, Chongming District, Shanghai, 202162, China
| | - Cheng Xue
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry and Chemical Processes, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China
- Institute of Eco-Chongming, 20 Cuiniao Road, Chenjia Town, Chongming District, Shanghai, 202162, China
| | - Wei Xia
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry and Chemical Processes, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China
- Institute of Eco-Chongming, 20 Cuiniao Road, Chenjia Town, Chongming District, Shanghai, 202162, China
| | - Xueqing Xing
- Beijing Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Qinggong Zhu
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, CAS Key Laboratory of Colloid and Interface and Thermodynamics, CAS Research/Education Center for Excellence in Molecular Sciences, Center for carbon neutral chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
| | - Haihong Wu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry and Chemical Processes, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China
- Institute of Eco-Chongming, 20 Cuiniao Road, Chenjia Town, Chongming District, Shanghai, 202162, China
| | - Mingyuan He
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry and Chemical Processes, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China
- Institute of Eco-Chongming, 20 Cuiniao Road, Chenjia Town, Chongming District, Shanghai, 202162, China
| | - Buxing Han
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry and Chemical Processes, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China
- Institute of Eco-Chongming, 20 Cuiniao Road, Chenjia Town, Chongming District, Shanghai, 202162, China
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, CAS Key Laboratory of Colloid and Interface and Thermodynamics, CAS Research/Education Center for Excellence in Molecular Sciences, Center for carbon neutral chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
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22
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Gong Y, He T. Gaining Deep Understanding of Electrochemical CO 2 RR with In Situ/Operando Techniques. SMALL METHODS 2023; 7:e2300702. [PMID: 37608449 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202300702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
Electrocatalysis for CO2 conversion has been extensively studied to mitigate the energy shortage and environmental issues, which are gaining ever-increasing attention. However, the complicated CO2 reduction process and the dynamic evolution occurring on electrocatalyst surface make it hard to understand the catalytic mechanism. The development of advanced in situ/operando techniques intelligently coupled with electrochemical cells sheds light on the related study via capturing surface atomic rearrangement, tracing chemical state change of catalysts, monitoring the behavior of intermediates and products, and depicting microenvironment near the electrode surface. In this review, fundamentals of the state-of-the-art in situ/operando techniques are clarified first. Case studies on the in situ/operando techniques performed to probe the CO2 reduction reaction processes are then discussed in detail. Finally, conclusions and outlook on this field are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Gong
- CAS Laboratory of Nanosystem and Hierarchical Fabrication, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
| | - Tao He
- CAS Laboratory of Nanosystem and Hierarchical Fabrication, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
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23
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Jia Y, Ding Y, Song T, Xu Y, Li Y, Duan L, Li F, Sun L, Fan K. Dynamic Surface Reconstruction of Amphoteric Metal (Zn, Al) Doped Cu 2 O for Efficient Electrochemical CO 2 Reduction to C 2+ Products. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2303726. [PMID: 37530207 PMCID: PMC10558649 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202303726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
The recognition of the surface reconstruction of the catalysts during electrochemical CO2 reduction (CO2RR) is essential for exploring and comprehending active sites. Although the superior performance of Cu-Zn bimetallic sites toward multicarbon C2+ products has been established, the dynamic surface reconstruction has not been fully understood. Herein, Zn-doped Cu2 O nano-octahedrons are used to investigate the effect of the dynamic stability by the leaching and redeposition on CO2RR. Correlative characterizations confirm the Zn leaching from Zn-doped Cu2 O, which is redeposited at the surface of the catalysts, leading to dynamic stability and abundant Cu-Zn bimetallic sites at the surface. The reconstructed Zn-doped Cu2 O catalysts achieve a high Faradaic efficiency (FE) of C2+ products (77% at -1.1 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE)). Additionally, similar dynamic stability is also discovered in Al-doped Cu2 O for CO2RR, proving its universality in amphoteric metal-doped catalysts. Mechanism analyses reveal that the OHC-CHO pathway can be the C-C coupling processes on bare Cu2 O and Zn-doped Cu2 O, and the introduction of Zn to Cu can efficiently lower the energy barrier for CO2RR to C2 H4 . This research provides profound insight into unraveling surface dynamic reconstruction of amphoteric metal-containing electrocatalysts and can guide rational design of the high-performance electrocatalysts for CO2RR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yufei Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Fine ChemicalsInstitute of Artificial PhotosynthesisDUT‐KTH Joint Education and Research Centre on Molecular DevicesInstitute for Energy Science and TechnologyDalian University of TechnologyDalian116024P. R. China
| | - Yunxuan Ding
- Center of Artificial Photosynthesis for Solar Fuels, Department of ChemistrySchool of ScienceWestlake UniversityHangzhou310024P. R. China
| | - Tao Song
- Department of Chemistry and Shenzhen Grubbs InstituteSouthern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhen518055P. R. China
| | - Yunlong Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Fine ChemicalsInstitute of Artificial PhotosynthesisDUT‐KTH Joint Education and Research Centre on Molecular DevicesInstitute for Energy Science and TechnologyDalian University of TechnologyDalian116024P. R. China
| | - Yaqing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Fine ChemicalsInstitute of Artificial PhotosynthesisDUT‐KTH Joint Education and Research Centre on Molecular DevicesInstitute for Energy Science and TechnologyDalian University of TechnologyDalian116024P. R. China
| | - Lele Duan
- Department of Chemistry and Shenzhen Grubbs InstituteSouthern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhen518055P. R. China
| | - Fei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Fine ChemicalsInstitute of Artificial PhotosynthesisDUT‐KTH Joint Education and Research Centre on Molecular DevicesInstitute for Energy Science and TechnologyDalian University of TechnologyDalian116024P. R. China
| | - Licheng Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Fine ChemicalsInstitute of Artificial PhotosynthesisDUT‐KTH Joint Education and Research Centre on Molecular DevicesInstitute for Energy Science and TechnologyDalian University of TechnologyDalian116024P. R. China
- Center of Artificial Photosynthesis for Solar Fuels, Department of ChemistrySchool of ScienceWestlake UniversityHangzhou310024P. R. China
| | - Ke Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Fine ChemicalsInstitute of Artificial PhotosynthesisDUT‐KTH Joint Education and Research Centre on Molecular DevicesInstitute for Energy Science and TechnologyDalian University of TechnologyDalian116024P. R. China
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24
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Li Z, Wang L, Wang T, Sun L, Yang W. Steering the Dynamics of Reaction Intermediates and Catalyst Surface during Electrochemical Pulsed CO 2 Reduction for Enhanced C 2+ Selectivity. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:20655-20664. [PMID: 37639564 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c08005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Developing alternative electrolysis techniques is crucial for advancing electrocatalysis in addition to tremendous efforts of material developments. Recently, pulse electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) has demonstrated dramatic selectivity improvement toward multicarbon (C2+) products compared to potentiostatic electrochemical CO2RR, yet the underlying mechanisms remain little understood. Herein, we develop a fast time-resolved in situ Raman spectroscopic method with a time resolution of 0.25 s. We reveal that pulse electrolysis improves the C2+ selectivity of CO2RR through dynamic controls of the surface CuxO/Cu composition that would be unachievable under potentiostatic electrolysis. The population of the surface-adsorbed CO intermediate (COads) is characterized to be the determining factor in controlling reaction selectivity, which depicts the C2+/C1 selectivity of CO2RR under pulse conditions. Meanwhile, the vibrational character of COads, despite transforming dynamically between the low-frequency and high-frequency modes is characterized not to be the key factor in controlling the reaction selectivity. Such an active control of catalyst surface compositions and reaction intermediates enabled by pulse electrolysis offer a general way of regulating the electrocatalysis performance of broad electrochemical reactions beyond CO2RR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuofeng Li
- Center of Artificial Photosynthesis for Solar Fuels and Department of Chemistry, School of Science and Research Center for Industries of the Future, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang, China
- Institute of Natural Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang, China
- Division of Solar Energy Conversion and Catalysis at Westlake University, Zhejiang Baima Lake Laboratory Co., Ltd., Hangzhou 310000, China
| | - Linqin Wang
- Center of Artificial Photosynthesis for Solar Fuels and Department of Chemistry, School of Science and Research Center for Industries of the Future, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang, China
- Institute of Natural Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang, China
- Division of Solar Energy Conversion and Catalysis at Westlake University, Zhejiang Baima Lake Laboratory Co., Ltd., Hangzhou 310000, China
| | - Tao Wang
- Center of Artificial Photosynthesis for Solar Fuels and Department of Chemistry, School of Science and Research Center for Industries of the Future, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang, China
- Institute of Natural Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang, China
- Division of Solar Energy Conversion and Catalysis at Westlake University, Zhejiang Baima Lake Laboratory Co., Ltd., Hangzhou 310000, China
| | - Licheng Sun
- Center of Artificial Photosynthesis for Solar Fuels and Department of Chemistry, School of Science and Research Center for Industries of the Future, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang, China
- Institute of Natural Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang, China
- Division of Solar Energy Conversion and Catalysis at Westlake University, Zhejiang Baima Lake Laboratory Co., Ltd., Hangzhou 310000, China
| | - Wenxing Yang
- Center of Artificial Photosynthesis for Solar Fuels and Department of Chemistry, School of Science and Research Center for Industries of the Future, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang, China
- Institute of Natural Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang, China
- Division of Solar Energy Conversion and Catalysis at Westlake University, Zhejiang Baima Lake Laboratory Co., Ltd., Hangzhou 310000, China
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25
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Möller T, Filippi M, Brückner S, Ju W, Strasser P. A CO 2 electrolyzer tandem cell system for CO 2-CO co-feed valorization in a Ni-N-C/Cu-catalyzed reaction cascade. Nat Commun 2023; 14:5680. [PMID: 37709744 PMCID: PMC10502113 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-41278-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Coupled tandem electrolyzer concepts have been predicted to offer kinetic benefits to sluggish catalytic reactions thanks to their flexibility of reaction environments in each cell. Here we design, assemble, test, and analyze the first complete low-temperature, neutral-pH, cathode precious metal-free tandem CO2 electrolyzer cell chain. The tandem system couples an Ag-free CO2-to-CO2/CO electrolyzer (cell-1) to a CO2/CO-to-C2+ product electrolyzer (cell-2). Cell-1 and cell-2 incorporate selective Ni-N-C-based and Cu-based Gas Diffusion Cathodes, respectively, and operate at sustainable neutral pH conditions. Using our tandem cell system, we report strongly enhanced rates for the production of ethylene (by 50%) and alcohols (by 100%) and a sharply increased C2+ energy efficiency (by 100%) at current densities of up to 700 mA cm-2 compared to the single CO2-to-C2+ electrolyzer cell system approach. This study demonstrates that coupled tandem electrolyzer cell systems can offer kinetic and practical energetic benefits over single-cell designs for the production of value-added C2+ chemicals and fuels directly from CO2 feeds without intermediate separation or purification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim Möller
- The Electrochemical Energy, Catalysis, and Materials Science Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering Division, Technical University Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Michael Filippi
- The Electrochemical Energy, Catalysis, and Materials Science Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering Division, Technical University Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sven Brückner
- The Electrochemical Energy, Catalysis, and Materials Science Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering Division, Technical University Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Wen Ju
- The Electrochemical Energy, Catalysis, and Materials Science Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering Division, Technical University Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Peter Strasser
- The Electrochemical Energy, Catalysis, and Materials Science Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering Division, Technical University Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
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26
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Yan T, Chen X, Kumari L, Lin J, Li M, Fan Q, Chi H, Meyer TJ, Zhang S, Ma X. Multiscale CO 2 Electrocatalysis to C 2+ Products: Reaction Mechanisms, Catalyst Design, and Device Fabrication. Chem Rev 2023; 123:10530-10583. [PMID: 37589482 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.2c00514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
Electrosynthesis of value-added chemicals, directly from CO2, could foster achievement of carbon neutral through an alternative electrical approach to the energy-intensive thermochemical industry for carbon utilization. Progress in this area, based on electrogeneration of multicarbon products through CO2 electroreduction, however, lags far behind that for C1 products. Reaction routes are complicated and kinetics are slow with scale up to the high levels required for commercialization, posing significant problems. In this review, we identify and summarize state-of-art progress in multicarbon synthesis with a multiscale perspective and discuss current hurdles to be resolved for multicarbon generation from CO2 reduction including atomistic mechanisms, nanoscale electrocatalysts, microscale electrodes, and macroscale electrolyzers with guidelines for future research. The review ends with a cross-scale perspective that links discrepancies between different approaches with extensions to performance and stability issues that arise from extensions to an industrial environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianxiang Yan
- Key Laboratory for Green Chemical Technology of Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Centre of Chemical Science and Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Xiaoyi Chen
- Key Laboratory for Green Chemical Technology of Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Centre of Chemical Science and Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Lata Kumari
- Key Laboratory for Green Chemical Technology of Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Centre of Chemical Science and Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Jianlong Lin
- Key Laboratory for Green Chemical Technology of Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Centre of Chemical Science and Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Minglu Li
- Key Laboratory for Green Chemical Technology of Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Centre of Chemical Science and Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Qun Fan
- Key Laboratory for Green Chemical Technology of Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Centre of Chemical Science and Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Haoyuan Chi
- Key Laboratory for Green Chemical Technology of Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Centre of Chemical Science and Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Thomas J Meyer
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
| | - Sheng Zhang
- Key Laboratory for Green Chemical Technology of Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Centre of Chemical Science and Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
- Haihe Laboratory of Sustainable Chemical Transformations, Tianjin 300192, China
| | - Xinbin Ma
- Key Laboratory for Green Chemical Technology of Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Centre of Chemical Science and Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
- Haihe Laboratory of Sustainable Chemical Transformations, Tianjin 300192, China
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27
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An H, de Ruiter J, Wu L, Yang S, Meirer F, van der Stam W, Weckhuysen BM. Spatiotemporal Mapping of Local Heterogeneities during Electrochemical Carbon Dioxide Reduction. JACS AU 2023; 3:1890-1901. [PMID: 37502158 PMCID: PMC10369669 DOI: 10.1021/jacsau.3c00129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 06/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
The activity and selectivity of a copper electrocatalyst during the electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (eCO2RR) are largely dominated by the interplay between local reaction environment, the catalyst surface, and the adsorbed intermediates. In situ characterization studies have revealed many aspects of this intimate relationship between surface reactivity and adsorbed species, but these investigations are often limited by the spatial and temporal resolution of the analytical technique of choice. Here, Raman spectroscopy with both space and time resolution was used to reveal the distribution of adsorbed species and potential reaction intermediates on a copper electrode during eCO2RR. Principal component analysis (PCA) of the in situ Raman spectra revealed that a working electrocatalyst exhibits spatial heterogeneities in adsorbed species, and that the electrode surface can be divided into CO-dominant (mainly located at dendrite structures) and C-C dominant regions (mainly located at the roughened electrode surface). Our spectral evaluation further showed that in the CO-dominant regions, linear CO was observed (as characterized by a band at ∼2090 cm-1), accompanied by the more classical Cu-CO bending and stretching vibrations located at ∼280 and ∼360 cm-1, respectively. In contrast, in the C-C directing region, these three Raman bands are suppressed, while at the same time a band at ∼495 cm-1 and a broad Cu-CO band at ∼2050 cm-1 dominate the Raman spectra. Furthermore, PCA revealed that anodization creates more C-C dominant regions, and labeling experiments confirmed that the 495 cm-1 band originates from the presence of a Cu-C intermediate. These results indicate that a copper electrode at work is very dynamic, thereby clearly displaying spatiotemporal heterogeneities, and that in situ micro-spectroscopic techniques are crucial for understanding the eCO2RR mechanism of working electrocatalyst materials.
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28
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Liu L, Xiao H. Inverted Region in Electrochemical Reduction of CO 2 Induced by Potential-Dependent Pauli Repulsion. J Am Chem Soc 2023. [PMID: 37294851 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c02447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (eCO2RR) is of great significance to energy and environmental engineering, while fundamental questions remain regarding its mechanisms. Herein, we formulate a fundamental understanding of the interplay between the applied potential (U) and kinetics of CO2 activation in eCO2RR on Cu surfaces. We find that the nature of the CO2 activation mechanism in eCO2RR varies with U, and it is the sequential electron-proton transfer (SEPT) mechanism dominant at the working U but switched to the concerted proton-electron transfer (CPET) mechanism at highly negative U. We then identify that the barrier of the electron-transfer step in the SEPT mechanism exhibits an inverted region as U decreases, which originates from the rapidly rising Pauli repulsion in the physisorption of CO2 with decreasing U. We further demonstrate catalyst designs that effectively suppress the adverse effect of Pauli repulsion. This fundamental understanding may be general for the electrochemical reduction reactions of closed-shell molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leyu Liu
- Department of Chemistry and Key Laboratory of Organic Optoelectronics and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Hai Xiao
- Department of Chemistry and Key Laboratory of Organic Optoelectronics and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
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29
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Abstract
Electrocatalytic conversion of carbon dioxide to valuable chemicals and fuels driven by renewable energy plays a crucial role in achieving net-zero carbon emissions. Understanding the structure-activity relationship and the reaction mechanism is significant for tuning electrocatalyst selectivity. Therefore, characterizing catalyst dynamic evolution and reaction intermediates under reaction conditions is necessary but still challenging. We first summarize the most recent progress in mechanistic understanding of heterogeneous CO2/CO reduction using in situ/operando techniques, including surface-enhanced vibrational spectroscopies, X-ray- and electron-based techniques, and mass spectroscopy, along with discussing remaining limitations. We then offer insights and perspectives to accelerate the future development of in situ/operando techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bjorn Hasa
- Center for Catalytic Science and Technology, Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA;
| | - Yaran Zhao
- BNU-HKUST Laboratory of Green Innovation, Advanced Institute of Natural Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Feng Jiao
- Center for Catalytic Science and Technology, Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA;
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30
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Obasanjo CA, Gao G, Crane J, Golovanova V, García de Arquer FP, Dinh CT. High-rate and selective conversion of CO 2 from aqueous solutions to hydrocarbons. Nat Commun 2023; 14:3176. [PMID: 37264000 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-38963-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Electrochemical carbon dioxide (CO2) conversion to hydrocarbon fuels, such as methane (CH4), offers a promising solution for the long-term and large-scale storage of renewable electricity. To enable this technology, CO2-to-CH4 conversion must achieve high selectivity and energy efficiency at high currents. Here, we report an electrochemical conversion system that features proton-bicarbonate-CO2 mass transport management coupled with an in-situ copper (Cu) activation strategy to achieve high CH4 selectivity at high currents. We find that open matrix Cu electrodes sustain sufficient local CO2 concentration by combining both dissolved CO2 and in-situ generated CO2 from the bicarbonate. In-situ Cu activation through alternating current operation renders and maintains the catalyst highly selective towards CH4. The combination of these strategies leads to CH4 Faradaic efficiencies of over 70% in a wide current density range (100 - 750 mA cm-2) that is stable for at least 12 h at a current density of 500 mA cm-2. The system also delivers a CH4 concentration of 23.5% in the gas product stream.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cornelius A Obasanjo
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, K7L 3N6, Canada
| | - Guorui Gao
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, K7L 3N6, Canada
| | - Jackson Crane
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, K7L 3N6, Canada
| | - Viktoria Golovanova
- ICFO-Institut de Ciències Fotòniques, The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, 08860, Spain
| | - F Pelayo García de Arquer
- ICFO-Institut de Ciències Fotòniques, The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, 08860, Spain
| | - Cao-Thang Dinh
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, K7L 3N6, Canada.
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31
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Chhetri M, Wan M, Jin Z, Yeager J, Sandor C, Rapp C, Wang H, Lee S, Bodenschatz CJ, Zachman MJ, Che F, Yang M. Dual-site catalysts featuring platinum-group-metal atoms on copper shapes boost hydrocarbon formations in electrocatalytic CO 2 reduction. Nat Commun 2023; 14:3075. [PMID: 37244900 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-38777-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Copper-based catalyst is uniquely positioned to catalyze the hydrocarbon formations through electrochemical CO2 reduction. The catalyst design freedom is limited for alloying copper with H-affinitive elements represented by platinum group metals because the latter would easily drive the hydrogen evolution reaction to override CO2 reduction. We report an adept design of anchoring atomically dispersed platinum group metal species on both polycrystalline and shape-controlled Cu catalysts, which now promote targeted CO2 reduction reaction while frustrating the undesired hydrogen evolution reaction. Notably, alloys with similar metal formulations but comprising small platinum or palladium clusters would fail this objective. With an appreciable amount of CO-Pd1 moieties on copper surfaces, facile CO* hydrogenation to CHO* or CO-CHO* coupling is now viable as one of the main pathways on Cu(111) or Cu(100) to selectively produce CH4 or C2H4 through Pd-Cu dual-site pathways. The work broadens copper alloying choices for CO2 reduction in aqueous phases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manjeet Chhetri
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA
| | - Mingyu Wan
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA, USA
| | - Zehua Jin
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA
| | - John Yeager
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA
| | - Case Sandor
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA
| | - Conner Rapp
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA
| | - Hui Wang
- Institute for New Energy Materials and Low Carbon Technology, Tianjin University of Technology, Tianjin, China
| | - Sungsik Lee
- X-ray Science Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, IL, USA
| | - Cameron J Bodenschatz
- Environmental Effects and Coatings Branch, NASA John H. Glenn Research Center, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Michael J Zachman
- Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN, USA
| | - Fanglin Che
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA, USA.
| | - Ming Yang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA.
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32
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Gianolio D, Higham MD, Quesne MG, Aramini M, Xu R, Large AI, Held G, Velasco-Vélez JJ, Haevecker M, Knop-Gericke A, Genovese C, Ampelli C, Schuster ME, Perathoner S, Centi G, Catlow CRA, Arrigo R. Interfacial Chemistry in the Electrocatalytic Hydrogenation of CO 2 over C-Supported Cu-Based Systems. ACS Catal 2023; 13:5876-5895. [PMID: 37180964 PMCID: PMC10167656 DOI: 10.1021/acscatal.3c01288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Operando soft and hard X-ray spectroscopic techniques were used in combination with plane-wave density functional theory (DFT) simulations to rationalize the enhanced activities of Zn-containing Cu nanostructured electrocatalysts in the electrocatalytic CO2 hydrogenation reaction. We show that at a potential for CO2 hydrogenation, Zn is alloyed with Cu in the bulk of the nanoparticles with no metallic Zn segregated; at the interface, low reducible Cu(I)-O species are consumed. Additional spectroscopic features are observed, which are identified as various surface Cu(I) ligated species; these respond to the potential, revealing characteristic interfacial dynamics. Similar behavior was observed for the Fe-Cu system in its active state, confirming the general validity of this mechanism; however, the performance of this system deteriorates after successive applied cathodic potentials, as the hydrogen evolution reaction then becomes the main reaction pathway. In contrast to an active system, Cu(I)-O is now consumed at cathodic potentials and not reversibly reformed when the voltage is allowed to equilibrate at the open-circuit voltage; rather, only the oxidation to Cu(II) is observed. We show that the Cu-Zn system represents the optimal active ensembles with stabilized Cu(I)-O; DFT simulations rationalize this observation by indicating that Cu-Zn-O neighboring atoms are able to activate CO2, whereas Cu-Cu sites provide the supply of H atoms for the hydrogenation reaction. Our results demonstrate an electronic effect exerted by the heterometal, which depends on its intimate distribution within the Cu phase and confirms the general validity of these mechanistic insights for future electrocatalyst design strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Gianolio
- Diamond
Light Source Ltd., Harwell
Science & Innovation Campus, Didcot, Oxfordshire OX11 0DE, U.K.
| | - Michael D. Higham
- Cardiff
Catalysis Institute, School of Chemistry, Cardiff University, Main Building, Park Place, Cardiff, Wales CF10 3AT, U.K.
- UK Catalysis
Hub, Research Complex at Harwell, Rutherford
Appleton Laboratory, R92, Harwell, Oxfordshire OX11 0FA, U.K.
- Department
of Chemistry, University College London, 20 Gordon Street, London WC1H 0AJ, U.K.
| | - Matthew G. Quesne
- Cardiff
Catalysis Institute, School of Chemistry, Cardiff University, Main Building, Park Place, Cardiff, Wales CF10 3AT, U.K.
- UK Catalysis
Hub, Research Complex at Harwell, Rutherford
Appleton Laboratory, R92, Harwell, Oxfordshire OX11 0FA, U.K.
| | - Matteo Aramini
- Diamond
Light Source Ltd., Harwell
Science & Innovation Campus, Didcot, Oxfordshire OX11 0DE, U.K.
| | - Ruoyu Xu
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, University College
London, 20 Gordon Street, London WC1H 0AJ, U.K.
| | - Alex I. Large
- Diamond
Light Source Ltd., Harwell
Science & Innovation Campus, Didcot, Oxfordshire OX11 0DE, U.K.
| | - Georg Held
- Diamond
Light Source Ltd., Harwell
Science & Innovation Campus, Didcot, Oxfordshire OX11 0DE, U.K.
| | - Juan-Jesús Velasco-Vélez
- Max-Planck-Institut
für Chemische Energiekonversion, Stiftstrasse 34-36, 45470 Mülheim an der Ruhr, Germany
- Department
of Inorganic Chemistry, Fritz-Haber-Institut
der Max-Planck Gesellschaft, Faradayweg 4-6, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Michael Haevecker
- Max-Planck-Institut
für Chemische Energiekonversion, Stiftstrasse 34-36, 45470 Mülheim an der Ruhr, Germany
- Department
of Inorganic Chemistry, Fritz-Haber-Institut
der Max-Planck Gesellschaft, Faradayweg 4-6, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Axel Knop-Gericke
- Max-Planck-Institut
für Chemische Energiekonversion, Stiftstrasse 34-36, 45470 Mülheim an der Ruhr, Germany
- Department
of Inorganic Chemistry, Fritz-Haber-Institut
der Max-Planck Gesellschaft, Faradayweg 4-6, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Chiara Genovese
- Department
of ChiBioFarAm, ERIC aisbl and CASPE/INSTM, University of Messina, V. le F.Stagno D’ Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy
| | - Claudio Ampelli
- Department
of ChiBioFarAm, ERIC aisbl and CASPE/INSTM, University of Messina, V. le F.Stagno D’ Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy
| | | | - Siglinda Perathoner
- Department
of ChiBioFarAm, ERIC aisbl and CASPE/INSTM, University of Messina, V. le F.Stagno D’ Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy
| | - Gabriele Centi
- Department
of ChiBioFarAm, ERIC aisbl and CASPE/INSTM, University of Messina, V. le F.Stagno D’ Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy
| | - C. Richard A. Catlow
- Diamond
Light Source Ltd., Harwell
Science & Innovation Campus, Didcot, Oxfordshire OX11 0DE, U.K.
- Cardiff
Catalysis Institute, School of Chemistry, Cardiff University, Main Building, Park Place, Cardiff, Wales CF10 3AT, U.K.
- UK Catalysis
Hub, Research Complex at Harwell, Rutherford
Appleton Laboratory, R92, Harwell, Oxfordshire OX11 0FA, U.K.
- Department
of Chemistry, University College London, 20 Gordon Street, London WC1H 0AJ, U.K.
| | - Rosa Arrigo
- Diamond
Light Source Ltd., Harwell
Science & Innovation Campus, Didcot, Oxfordshire OX11 0DE, U.K.
- School
of Science, Engineering and Environment, University of Salford, Cockcroft Building, Salford, Greater Manchester M5 4WT, U.K.
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33
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Chen PC, Chen C, Yang Y, Maulana AL, Jin J, Feijoo J, Yang P. Chemical and Structural Evolution of AgCu Catalysts in Electrochemical CO 2 Reduction. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:10116-10125. [PMID: 37115017 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c00467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
Silver-copper (AgCu) bimetallic catalysts hold great potential for electrochemical carbon dioxide reduction reaction (CO2RR), which is a promising way to realize the goal of carbon neutrality. Although a wide variety of AgCu catalysts have been developed so far, it is relatively less explored how these AgCu catalysts evolve during CO2RR. The absence of insights into their stability makes the dynamic catalytic sites elusive and hampers the design of AgCu catalysts in a rational manner. Here, we synthesized intermixed and phase-separated AgCu nanoparticles on carbon paper electrodes and investigated their evolution behavior in CO2RR. Our time-sequential electron microscopy and elemental mapping studies show that Cu possesses high mobility in AgCu under CO2RR conditions, which can leach out from the catalysts by migrating to the bimetallic catalyst surface, detaching from the catalysts, and agglomerating as new particles. Besides, Ag and Cu manifest a trend to phase-separate into Cu-rich and Ag-rich grains, regardless of the starting catalyst structure. The composition of the Cu-rich and Ag-rich grains diverges during the reaction and eventually approaches thermodynamic values, i.e., Ag0.88Cu0.12 and Ag0.05Cu0.95. The separation between Ag and Cu has been observed in the bulk and on the surface of the catalysts, highlighting the importance of AgCu phase boundaries for CO2RR. In addition, an operando high-energy-resolution X-ray absorption spectroscopy study confirms the metallic state of Cu in AgCu as the catalytically active sites during CO2RR. Taken together, this work provides a comprehensive understanding of the chemical and structural evolution behavior of AgCu catalysts in CO2RR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng-Cheng Chen
- Kavli Energy Nanoscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Chubai Chen
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Yao Yang
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
- Miller Institute, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Arifin Luthfi Maulana
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Jianbo Jin
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Julian Feijoo
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Peidong Yang
- Kavli Energy Nanoscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
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34
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Wang Z, Li Y, Zhao X, Chen S, Nian Q, Luo X, Fan J, Ruan D, Xiong BQ, Ren X. Localized Alkaline Environment via In Situ Electrostatic Confinement for Enhanced CO 2-to-Ethylene Conversion in Neutral Medium. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:6339-6348. [PMID: 36892881 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.2c13384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/10/2023]
Abstract
Electrocatalytic CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) is one of the most promising routes to facilitate carbon neutrality. An alkaline electrolyte is typically needed to promote the production of valuable multi-carbon molecules (such as ethylene). However, the reaction between CO2 and OH- consumes a significant quantity of CO2/alkali and causes the rapid decay of CO2RR selectivity and stability. Here, we design a catalyst-electrolyte interface with an effective electrostatic confinement of in situ generated OH- to improve ethylene electrosynthesis from CO2 in neutral medium. In situ Raman measurements indicate the direct correlation between ethylene selectivity and the intensities of surface Cu-CO and Cu-OH species, suggesting the promoted C-C coupling with the surface enrichment of OH-. Thus, we report a CO2-to-ethylene Faradaic efficiency (FE) of 70% and a partial current density of 350 mA cm-2 at -0.89 V vs the reversible hydrogen electrode. Furthermore, the system demonstrated a 50 h stable operation at 300 mA cm-2 with an average ethylene FE of ∼68%. This study offers a universal strategy to tune the reaction micro-environment, and a significantly improved ethylene FE of 64.5% was obtained even in acidic electrolytes (pH = 2).
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Affiliation(s)
- Zihong Wang
- School of Chemistry and Materials Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Yecheng Li
- School of Chemistry and Materials Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Xin Zhao
- School of Chemistry and Materials Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Shunqiang Chen
- School of Chemistry and Materials Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Qingshun Nian
- School of Chemistry and Materials Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Xuan Luo
- School of Chemistry and Materials Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Jiajia Fan
- School of Chemistry and Materials Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Digen Ruan
- School of Chemistry and Materials Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Bing-Qing Xiong
- School of Chemistry and Materials Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Xiaodi Ren
- School of Chemistry and Materials Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
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35
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Munz M, Poon J, Frandsen W, Cuenya BR, Kley CS. Nanoscale Electron Transfer Variations at Electrocatalyst-Electrolyte Interfaces Resolved by in Situ Conductive Atomic Force Microscopy. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:5242-5251. [PMID: 36812448 PMCID: PMC9999420 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.2c12617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
Rational innovation of electrocatalysts requires detailed knowledge of spatial property variations across the solid-electrolyte interface. We introduce correlative atomic force microscopy (AFM) to simultaneously probe, in situ and at the nanoscale, electrical conductivity, chemical-frictional, and morphological properties of a bimetallic copper-gold system for CO2 electroreduction. In air, water, and bicarbonate electrolyte, current-voltage curves reveal resistive CuOx islands in line with local current contrasts, while frictional imaging indicates qualitative variations in the hydration layer molecular ordering upon change from water to electrolyte. Nanoscale current contrast on polycrystalline Au shows resistive grain boundaries and electrocatalytically passive adlayer regions. In situ conductive AFM imaging in water shows mesoscale regions of low current and reveals that reduced interfacial electric currents are accompanied by increased friction forces, thus indicating variations in the interfacial molecular ordering affected by the electrolyte composition and ionic species. These findings provide insights into how local electrochemical environments and adsorbed species affect interfacial charge transfer processes and support building in situ structure-property relationships in catalysis and energy conversion research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Munz
- Helmholtz Young Investigator Group Nanoscale Operando CO2 Photo-Electrocatalysis, Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie GmbH, 14109 Berlin, Germany.,Department of Interface Science, Fritz Haber Institute of the Max Planck Society, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Jeffrey Poon
- Department of Interface Science, Fritz Haber Institute of the Max Planck Society, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Wiebke Frandsen
- Department of Interface Science, Fritz Haber Institute of the Max Planck Society, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Beatriz Roldan Cuenya
- Department of Interface Science, Fritz Haber Institute of the Max Planck Society, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Christopher S Kley
- Helmholtz Young Investigator Group Nanoscale Operando CO2 Photo-Electrocatalysis, Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie GmbH, 14109 Berlin, Germany.,Department of Interface Science, Fritz Haber Institute of the Max Planck Society, 14195 Berlin, Germany
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36
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Near ambient N2 fixation on solid electrodes versus enzymes and homogeneous catalysts. Nat Rev Chem 2023; 7:184-201. [PMID: 37117902 DOI: 10.1038/s41570-023-00462-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/31/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The Mo/Fe nitrogenase enzyme is unique in its ability to efficiently reduce dinitrogen to ammonia at atmospheric pressures and room temperature. Should an artificial electrolytic device achieve the same feat, it would revolutionize fertilizer production and even provide an energy-dense, truly carbon-free fuel. This Review provides a coherent comparison of recent progress made in dinitrogen fixation on solid electrodes, homogeneous catalysts and nitrogenases. Specific emphasis is placed on systems for which there is unequivocal evidence that dinitrogen reduction has taken place. By establishing the cross-cutting themes and synergies between these systems, we identify viable avenues for future research.
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37
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Xu X, Valavanis D, Ciocci P, Confederat S, Marcuccio F, Lemineur JF, Actis P, Kanoufi F, Unwin PR. The New Era of High-Throughput Nanoelectrochemistry. Anal Chem 2023; 95:319-356. [PMID: 36625121 PMCID: PMC9835065 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.2c05105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Xiangdong Xu
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, U.K.
| | | | - Paolo Ciocci
- Université
Paris Cité, ITODYS, CNRS, F-75013 Paris, France
| | - Samuel Confederat
- School
of Electronic and Electrical Engineering and Pollard Institute, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, U.K.,Bragg
Centre for Materials Research, University
of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, U.K.
| | - Fabio Marcuccio
- School
of Electronic and Electrical Engineering and Pollard Institute, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, U.K.,Bragg
Centre for Materials Research, University
of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, U.K.,Faculty
of Medicine, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, United Kingdom
| | | | - Paolo Actis
- School
of Electronic and Electrical Engineering and Pollard Institute, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, U.K.,Bragg
Centre for Materials Research, University
of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, U.K.,
| | | | - Patrick R. Unwin
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, U.K.,
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38
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In situ/operando characterization techniques for electrochemical CO2 reduction. Sci China Chem 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s11426-021-1463-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
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39
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Recent Advances in In Situ/Operando Surface/Interface Characterization Techniques for the Study of Artificial Photosynthesis. INORGANICS 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/inorganics11010016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
(Photo-)electrocatalytic artificial photosynthesis driven by electrical and/or solar energy that converts water (H2O) and carbon dioxide (CO2) into hydrogen (H2), carbohydrates and oxygen (O2), has proven to be a promising and effective route for producing clean alternatives to fossil fuels, as well as for storing intermittent renewable energy, and thus to solve the energy crisis and climate change issues that we are facing today. Basic (photo-)electrocatalysis consists of three main processes: (1) light absorption, (2) the separation and transport of photogenerated charge carriers, and (3) the transfer of photogenerated charge carriers at the interfaces. With further research, scientists have found that these three steps are significantly affected by surface and interface properties (e.g., defect, dangling bonds, adsorption/desorption, surface recombination, electric double layer (EDL), surface dipole). Therefore, the catalytic performance, which to a great extent is determined by the physicochemical properties of surfaces and interfaces between catalyst and reactant, can be changed dramatically under working conditions. Common approaches for investigating these phenomena include X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), scanning probe microscopy (SPM), wide angle X-ray diffraction (WAXRD), auger electron spectroscopy (AES), transmission electron microscope (TEM), etc. Generally, these techniques can only be applied under ex situ conditions and cannot fully recover the changes of catalysts in real chemical reactions. How to identify and track alterations of the catalysts, and thus provide further insight into the complex mechanisms behind them, has become a major research topic in this field. The application of in situ/operando characterization techniques enables real-time monitoring and analysis of dynamic changes. Therefore, researchers can obtain physical and/or chemical information during the reaction (e.g., morphology, chemical bonding, valence state, photocurrent distribution, surface potential variation, surface reconstruction), or even by the combination of these techniques as a suite (e.g., atomic force microscopy-based infrared spectroscopy (AFM-IR), or near-ambient-pressure STM/XPS combined system (NAP STM-XPS)) to correlate the various properties simultaneously, so as to further reveal the reaction mechanisms. In this review, we briefly describe the working principles of in situ/operando surface/interface characterization technologies (i.e., SPM and X-ray spectroscopy) and discuss the recent progress in monitoring relevant surface/interface changes during water splitting and CO2 reduction reactions (CO2RR). We hope that this review will provide our readers with some ideas and guidance about how these in situ/operando characterization techniques can help us investigate the changes in catalyst surfaces/interfaces, and further promote the development of (photo-)electrocatalytic surface and interface engineering.
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40
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Winkler MEG, Gonçalves RH, Rubira AF. FTIR-Assisted Electroreduction of CO 2 and H 2O to CO and H 2 by Electrochemically Deposited Copper on Oxidized Graphite Felt. ACS OMEGA 2022; 7:45067-45076. [PMID: 36530290 PMCID: PMC9753529 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.2c05486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Obtaining CO and H2 from electrochemical CO2 reduction (CO2RR) offers a viable alternative to reduce CO2 emissions and produce chemicals and fuels. Herein, we report a simple strategy for obtaining polycrystalline copper deposited on oxidized graphite felt (Cu-OGF) and its performance on the selective conversion of CO2 and H2O to CO and H2. For the electrode obtaining, graphite felt (GF) was first oxidized (OGF) in order to make the substrate hydrophilic and then copper particles were electrochemically deposited onto OGF. The pH of deposition was investigated, and the CO2RR activity was assessed for the prepared electrodes at each pH (2.0, 4.0, 6.0, 8.0, and 10.0). It was found that pH 2.0 was the most promising for CO2RR due to the presence of hexagonal copper microparticles. Fourier transform infrared analysis of the produced gases showed that this is a low-cost catalyst capable of reducing CO2 and H2O to CO and H2, with Faradaic efficiencies between 0.50 and 5.21% for CO and 50.87 to 98.30% for H2, depending on the experimental conditions. Hence, it is possible for this gas mixture to be used as a fuel gas or to be enriched with CO for use in Fischer-Tropsch processes.
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41
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Zhang Y, Si Z, Du H, Deng Y, Zhang Q, Wang Z, Yu Q, Xu H. Selective CO 2 Reduction to Ethylene Over a Wide Potential Window by Copper Nanowires with High Density of Defects. Inorg Chem 2022; 61:20666-20673. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.inorgchem.2c03649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zhang
- Institute for Energy Research, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, School of Energy and Power Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang212013, P. R. China
| | - Zhanbo Si
- Institute for Energy Research, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, School of Energy and Power Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang212013, P. R. China
| | - Huishuang Du
- Institute for Energy Research, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, School of Energy and Power Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang212013, P. R. China
| | - Yilin Deng
- Institute for Energy Research, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, School of Energy and Power Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang212013, P. R. China
| | - Qiankang Zhang
- Institute for Energy Research, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, School of Energy and Power Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang212013, P. R. China
| | - Zhaolong Wang
- Institute for Energy Research, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, School of Energy and Power Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang212013, P. R. China
| | - Qing Yu
- Institute for Energy Research, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, School of Energy and Power Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang212013, P. R. China
| | - Hui Xu
- Institute for Energy Research, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, School of Energy and Power Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang212013, P. R. China
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42
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Li H, Liang Y, Ju W, Schneider O, Stimming U. In Situ Monitoring of the Surface Evolution of a Silver Electrode from Polycrystalline to Well-Defined Structures. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2022; 38:14981-14987. [PMID: 36395357 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.2c02748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Capturing the surface-structural dynamics of metal electrocatalysts under certain electrochemical environments is intriguingly desired for understanding the behavior of various metal-based electrocatalysts. However, in situ monitoring of the evolution of a polycrystalline metal surface at the interface of electrode-electrolyte solutions at negative/positive potentials with high-resolution scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) is seldom. Here, we use electrochemical STM (EC-STM) for in situ monitoring of the surface evolution process of a silver electrode in both an aqueous sodium hydroxide solution and an ionic liquid of 1-methyl-1-octylpyrrolidinium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl) amide driven by negative potentials. We found silver underwent a surface change from a polycrystalline structure to a well-defined surface arrangement in both electrolytes. In NaOH aqueous solution, the silver surface transferred in several minutes at a turning-point potential where hydrogen adsorbed and formed mainly (111) and (100) pits. Controversially, the surface evolution in the ionic liquid was much slower than that in the aqueous solution, and cation adsorption was observed in a wide potential range. The surface evolution of silver is proposed to be linked to the surface adsorbates as well as the formation of their complexes with undercoordinated silver atoms. The results also show that cathodic annealing of polycrystalline silver is a cheap, easy, and reliable way to obtain quasi-ordered crystal surfaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongjiao Li
- School of Chemical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
- Institut für Informatik VI, Technische Universität München, Schleißheimer Str. 90a, Garching b. München 85748, Germany
| | - Yunchang Liang
- Max Planck-EPFL Laboratory for Molecular Nanoscience and Technology, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Institute of Physics (IPHYS), École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Wenbo Ju
- School of Physics and Optoelectronics, South China University of Technology, Wushan Road 381, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510640, China
| | - Oliver Schneider
- Institut für Informatik VI, Technische Universität München, Schleißheimer Str. 90a, Garching b. München 85748, Germany
| | - Ulrich Stimming
- Department of Physics E19, Technische Universität München, James-Franck-Str.1, Garching b. München 85748, Germany
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43
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Wang W, Duan J, Liu Y, Zhai T. Structural Reconstruction of Catalysts in Electroreduction Reaction: Identifying, Understanding, and Manipulating. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2022; 34:e2110699. [PMID: 35460124 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202110699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Electroreduction transformation of small molecules (CO2 , N2 , and H2 O) into chemical feedstocks offers a promising approach to eliminate carbon emissions and harness renewable energy. Most cathodic catalysts often undergo structural transformation under operating electroreduction conditions. These structural reconstructions are reflected in changes in their catalytic activity. In-depth understanding of the change of active sites and influence parameters of reconstruction behaviors is an essential precondition for the design of highly efficient catalysts. Despite the previous achievements, comprehensive insight toward the structural evolution mechanism in cathodic catalysts, compared to anode ones, under reaction conditions is still lacking. Herein, an overview of structural reconstruction for cathodic catalysts in terms of fundamental mechanisms, reconstruction process, advanced characterizations, and influencing parameters is provided. On this basis, the typical strategies for manipulating the structural reconfiguration of catalysts are also explicitly discussed from the catalyst structure and working environment. By delivering the mechanism, strategies, insights, and techniques, this review will provide a comprehensive understanding of the structural reconstruction of cathodic catalysts in electroreduction reactions and future guidelines for their rational development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenbin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Materials Processing and Die & Mould Technology, and School of Materials Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430074, P. R. China
| | - Junyuan Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Materials Processing and Die & Mould Technology, and School of Materials Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430074, P. R. China
| | - Youwen Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Materials Processing and Die & Mould Technology, and School of Materials Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430074, P. R. China
| | - Tianyou Zhai
- State Key Laboratory of Materials Processing and Die & Mould Technology, and School of Materials Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430074, P. R. China
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Amirbeigiarab R, Bagger A, Tian J, Rossmeisl J, Magnussen OM. Structure of the (Bi)carbonate Adlayer on Cu(100) Electrodes. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022; 61:e202211360. [PMID: 36122295 PMCID: PMC9827965 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202211360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
(Bi)carbonate adsorption on Cu(100) in 0.1 M KHCO3 has been studied by in situ scanning tunneling microscopy. Coexistence of different ordered adlayer phases with ( 2 ${\sqrt{2}}$ ×6 2 ${\sqrt{2}}$ )R45° and (4×4) unit cells was observed in the double layer potential regime. The adlayer is rather dynamic and undergoes a reversible order-disorder phase transition at 0 V vs. the reversible hydrogen electrode. Density functional calculations indicate that the adlayer consists of coadsorbed carbonate and water molecules and is strongly stabilized by liquid water in the adjacent electrolyte.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alexander Bagger
- Center of High Entropy Alloy Catalysis (CHEAC)Department of ChemistryUniversity of CopenhagenUniversitetsparken 52100CopenhagenDenmark
| | - Jing Tian
- Institute of Experimental and Applied PhysicsKiel University24098KielGermany
| | - Jan Rossmeisl
- Center of High Entropy Alloy Catalysis (CHEAC)Department of ChemistryUniversity of CopenhagenUniversitetsparken 52100CopenhagenDenmark
| | - Olaf M. Magnussen
- Institute of Experimental and Applied PhysicsKiel University24098KielGermany
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Pastor E, Montañés L, Gutiérrez-Blanco A, Hegner FS, Mesa CA, López N, Giménez S. The role of crystal facets and disorder on photo-electrosynthesis. NANOSCALE 2022; 14:15596-15606. [PMID: 36148901 DOI: 10.1039/d2nr03609f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Photoelectrochemistry has the potential to play a crucial role in the storage of solar energy and the realisation of a circular economy. From a chemical viewpoint, achieving high conversion efficiencies requires subtle control of the catalyst surface and its interaction with the electrolyte. Traditionally, such control has been hard to achieve in the complex multinary oxides used in PEC devices and consequently the mechanisms by which surface exposed facets influence light-driven catalysts are poorly understood. Yet, this understanding is critical to further improve conversion yields and fine-tune reaction selectivities. Here, we review the impact that crystal facets and disorder have on photoelectrochemical reactivity. In particular, we discuss how the crystal orientation influences the energetics of the surface, the existence of defects and the transport of reactive charges, ultimately dictating the PEC activity. Moreover, we evaluate how facet stability dictates the tendency of the solid to undergo reconstructions during catalytic processes and highlight the experimental and computational challenges that must be overcome to characterise the role of the exposed facets and disorder in catalytic performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ernest Pastor
- Institute of Advanced Materials (INAM), Universitat Jaume I, Avenida de Vicent Sos Baynat, s/n 12006, Castelló, Spain.
| | - Laura Montañés
- Institute of Advanced Materials (INAM), Universitat Jaume I, Avenida de Vicent Sos Baynat, s/n 12006, Castelló, Spain.
| | - Ana Gutiérrez-Blanco
- Institute of Advanced Materials (INAM), Universitat Jaume I, Avenida de Vicent Sos Baynat, s/n 12006, Castelló, Spain.
| | - Franziska S Hegner
- Technical University of Munich, Department of Physics, James-Franck-Str. 1, 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Camilo A Mesa
- Institute of Advanced Materials (INAM), Universitat Jaume I, Avenida de Vicent Sos Baynat, s/n 12006, Castelló, Spain.
| | - Núria López
- Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Avinguda Països Catalans 16, 43007 Tarragona, Spain.
| | - Sixto Giménez
- Institute of Advanced Materials (INAM), Universitat Jaume I, Avenida de Vicent Sos Baynat, s/n 12006, Castelló, Spain.
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Wei J, Chen W, Zhou D, Cai J, Chen YX. Restructuring of well-defined Pt-based electrode surfaces under mild electrochemical conditions. CHINESE JOURNAL OF CATALYSIS 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/s1872-2067(22)64100-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
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Su HS, Chang X, Xu B. Surface-enhanced vibrational spectroscopies in electrocatalysis: Fundamentals, challenges, and perspectives. CHINESE JOURNAL OF CATALYSIS 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/s1872-2067(22)64157-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Wang X, Hu Q, Li G, Yang H, He C. Recent Advances and Perspectives of Electrochemical CO2 Reduction Toward C2+ Products on Cu-Based Catalysts. ELECTROCHEM ENERGY R 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s41918-022-00171-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Deng B, Zhao X, Li Y, Huang M, Zhang S, Dong F. Active site identification and engineering during the dynamic evolution of copper-based catalysts for electrocatalytic CO2 reduction. Sci China Chem 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s11426-022-1412-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Lee SW, Jeon B, Lee H, Park JY. Hot Electron Phenomena at Solid-Liquid Interfaces. J Phys Chem Lett 2022; 13:9435-9448. [PMID: 36194546 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpclett.2c02319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the role of energy dissipation and charge transfer under exothermic chemical reactions on metal catalyst surfaces is important for elucidating the fundamental phenomena at solid-gas and solid-liquid interfaces. Recently, many surface chemistry studies have been conducted on the solid-liquid interface, so correlating electronic excitation in the liquid-phase with the reaction mechanism plays a crucial role in heterogeneous catalysis. In this review, we introduce the detection principle of electron transfer at the solid-liquid interface by developing cutting-edge technologies with metal-semiconductor Schottky nanodiodes. The kinetics of hot electron excitation are well correlated with the reaction rates, demonstrating that the operando method for understanding nonadiabatic interactions is helpful in studying the reaction mechanism of surface molecular processes. In addition to the detection of hot electrons excited by a catalytic reaction, we highlight recent results on how the transfer of the hot electrons influences surface chemical and photoelectrochemical reactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si Woo Lee
- Department of Chemistry Education, Korea National University of Education (KNUE), Chungbuk28173, Republic of Korea
| | - Beomjoon Jeon
- Department of Chemistry, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon34141, Republic of Korea
- Center for Nanomaterials and Chemical Reactions, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Daejeon34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyosun Lee
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Seoul, Seoul04066, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong Young Park
- Department of Chemistry, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon34141, Republic of Korea
- Center for Nanomaterials and Chemical Reactions, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Daejeon34141, Republic of Korea
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