Advancing heterogeneous CO2-to-multicarbon products conversion by molecular engineering

Electrochemical CO2-to-multicarbon products (C2, C3) conversion has been considered a promising strategy to close the carbon-neutral cycle and provide renewable energy resources of next generation. Unfortunately, up to now, its catalytic efficiency is still far from our industrialization demand.

A key question is remaining: how to rationally adjust the catalyst local structure and catalytic microenvironment to improve the activity.

In this proposal, I will combine the advantages of heterogeneous and homogeneous catalysts, apply molecular modification approach to fabricate heterogeneous CO2-C2 products conversion catalyst.

Adjusted covalent functionalization will be firstly performed on Cu nanocatalyst to rationally tailor its electronic structure.

The key intermediate absorption and its relation to the electronic structure will be revealed by operando X-ray spectroscopy.

Functional groups will then be introduced to optimize the catalytic microenvironment, facilitating the electron/proton transfer.

Next, the synergy between nanostructure and molecular modification will be demonstrated to fabricate efficient catalysts with benchmark performance.

At last, a well-organized solar-driven CO2 reduction system will be constructed by coupling with state-of-the-art PV technology and water oxidation catalysis.

This project will provide in-depth insight on CO2 reduction catalysis below molecular level, open new directions in heterogeneous catalyst construction and CO2 utilization.