Cu-Zn bimetal modification of MXene for efficient electrocatalytic carbon dioxide reduction of formic acid

Abstract

Efficient methods for carbon dioxide reduction reactions (ECO₂RR) utilizing electrical energy are of paramount importance, yet the design of catalysts remains a pivotal factor in attaining highly effective ECO₂RR processes. To circumvent the reliance on precious metals, it is imperative to attain a high degree of selectivity towards formic acid (HCOOH) through the regulation of Cu metal. Zinc (Zn), being cost-effective and possessing favorable binding energy towards *COOH, emerges as a promising alternative. To further augment the catalytic activity, we employed the electrostatic self-adsorption capability of Ti₃C₂T_xMXene to anchor a Cu-Zn bimetallic structure onto its surface. The results demonstrate that the Cu-Zn bimetallic structure is anchored to the Ti vacancies and coupled with the surface functional groups of MXene. The incorporation of Zn markedly enhances the electron transfer to Cu, leading to a notable 87% selectivity for formic acid and a remarkable stability of 16 h. This study elucidates a novel approach for the modification of MXene-based bimetallic catalysts, thereby establishing a foundation for the development of an efficient ECO₂RR process.

Graphical abstract