Metal Cluster-based Crystalline Materials for the Electrocatalytic Reduction of Carbon Dioxide

Abstract

Given the increasingly severe global climate change and energy crisis, the conversion of carbon dioxide (CO₂) into very valuable chemicals has been proposed as an attractive solution. The electrocatalytic CO₂ reduction reaction (eCO₂RR) represents a remarkably efficient pathway for reducing CO₂ under mild conditions. Metal cluster-based crystalline materials (MCMs) have garnered significant interest in the area of CO₂RR because of their elevated concentration of active sites, tunable backbone structures, and excellent stability. These materials enable precise control of metal valence states and charge transfer pathways, offering a variety of reduction pathways for CO₂RR. Herein, we examine the utilization of MCMs in eCO₂RR in recent years. We cover the fundamental principles of electrocatalytic CO₂ reduction, the synthesis approaches for these materials, and the connection between structural characteristics and catalytic performance. Additionally, the paper delves into the challenges and opportunities presented by MCMs for enhancing CO₂RR efficiency and selectivity. Herein, we aim to provide researchers with a new perspective on MCMs in the field of eCO₂RR, thereby improving understanding of the relationship between structure and performance. Ultimately, this work seeks to advance the technology for eCO₂RR, contributing significantly to sustainable energy production and the mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions.