Boosting CO₂ Electroreduction on N,P-Co-doped Carbon Aerogels

Area of Science:

• Electrochemistry
• Materials Science
• Catalysis

Background:

• Electrocatalytic CO2 reduction to CO offers a sustainable alternative to fossil fuel-based synthesis.
• Achieving high current density and high faradaic efficiency (FE) simultaneously remains a significant challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce nitrogen and phosphorus co-doped carbon aerogels (NPCA) as a novel electrocatalyst for CO2 reduction to CO.
• To investigate the performance of NPCA in terms of current density and FE.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of N,P-co-doped carbon aerogels (NPCA).
• Electrochemical characterization of NPCA for CO2 reduction.
• Control experiments and theoretical calculations to elucidate the catalytic mechanism.

Main Results:

• NPCA achieved a CO faradaic efficiency of 99.1% with a partial current density of -143.6 mA cm-2.
• NPCA exhibited higher electrochemical active area and electronic conductivity compared to singly doped materials.
• Pyridinic nitrogen sites were identified as active centers for CO2 reduction, while phosphorus doping suppressed the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER).

Conclusions:

• NPCA is a highly effective electrocatalyst for CO2 reduction to CO.
• The synergistic effect of N and P co-doping enhances catalytic performance by improving electron transfer and suppressing HER.
• This work presents a promising pathway for efficient CO2 utilization powered by renewable electricity.