Single-atom catalysts for electrochemical CO2 reduction across concentrated, dilute, and capture-derived (bi)carbonate feed conditions

Abstract

Single-atom catalysts (SACs) provide a versatile platform for electrochemical CO2 reduction through precise control of isolate metal centers and their surrounding environments. However, their performance depends on the carbon feed, raising questions about the applicability of catalyst design principle developed under conventional conditions to more practical carbon sources. This review discusses SACs across concentrated CO2, dilute CO2, and capture-derived (bi)carbonate electrolysis, emphasizing how changes in feed conditions reshape catalytic requirements. Representative synthesis methods and reaction fundamentals are outlined, follwed by a discussion of catalyst engineering strategies and their relevance to each reaction environment. The relationships among active-site properties, reactant availability, and the local reaction environment are examined across these feed conditions. Current challenges and future directions for practical implementation are also discussed. This review highlights the need to adapt SAC design to carbon-feed characterizations, providing guidance for efficient and practical electrochemical carbon utilization.