Electrochemical Valorization of Gaseous Small Molecules with Diamond-Based Catalysts

Abstract

The valorization of gaseous small molecules, such as CO₂, O₂, and N₂, through electrochemical processes holds promise in the production of useful chemicals while also addressing environmental challenges. Diamond-based electrocatalysts (D-ECs) with sp³-hybridized carbon atoms have been demonstrated to be effective for electrochemical valorization of gaseous small molecules because of their inherent architecture, extensive potential window, and electrochemical stability. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the electrochemical transformation of these gaseous small molecules on D-ECs, focusing specifically on the origins of active sites and the associated catalytic mechanisms related to adsorption tendencies. The strategies for design and development of efficient D-ECs, including heteroatom doping, nanostructuring, hybrid systems, surface functionalization, and adjustment of the local microenvironment during electrolysis, are also discussed, along with device engineering and application based on these D-ECs. Furthermore, the key challenges and opportunities in this emerging field are explored.