Zeolitic Imidazolate Frameworks-Based Materials as Emerging Catalysts for CO2 Electrochemical Reduction: Synthesis and Strategies to Improve Performance

Abstract

The electrochemical CO₂ reduction reaction (CO₂RR) is one of the most promising reactions that allows the capture and conversion of CO₂ into value-added products. Designing and developing low-cost catalysts with excellent catalytic activity, high target product selectivity and long-term stability is the long-time goal in both science and industry. The past five years have witnessed an increasing number of achievements in the use of zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs)-based materials in electrochemical CO₂RR due to their high specific surface area, porous structures, adjustable catalytic activities, and excellent stability. In this Perspective, we aim to review the synthesis of ZIFs-based materials, mechanisms of product generation, and strategies to improve the performance in electrochemical CO₂RR, including increasing surface active sites, synergistic catalysis, and electronic structure control. Furthermore, the review outlines the current research trends and provides an inspiring outlook on future developments in the field.