Progress and challenges of transition metal-based catalysts regulation for Li-CO2 batteries

Lithium-carbon dioxide (Li−CO₂) batteries have gained wide attention in recent years due to their high energy density and effective CO₂ fixation and conversion. However, the sluggish CO₂ transformation kinetics always result in high polarization voltage and poor cycling stability, seriously impeding their development. Electrochemical catalysts especially transition metal (TM)-based ones with modulated micro- and electronic-structure have attracted significant interest and exhibited great promising in promoting the CO₂ reduction and evolution reactions owing to their unique d orbital. In this review, we summarize the hot modifying strategies and the related mechanism of TM-based catalysts including Ru, Ir, Pt and non-nobel transition metals such as Mo, Co, Cu, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cr, Cd, V, In, W and Re etc. applied in Li−CO₂ batteries. The latest research progress along with some remaining issues is discussed in detail. Finally, the perspectives and challenges of TMs-based catalysts for Li−CO₂ battery are presented, aiming to provide valuable guidance for the design and optimization of advanced cathodic catalysts in high-efficiency Li−CO₂ batteries.