Optimizing C─C Coupling on Cu⁰/Cu⁺/Ga Interfaces by Enhancing Active Hydrogen Absorption for Excellent CO₂-to-C₂₊...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Catalysis

Background:

• Electrocatalytic reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2RR) is crucial for a sustainable carbon cycle but faces challenges in activity and selectivity.
• Heterostructures are effective for multi-carbon product generation, yet underlying synergistic mechanisms require clarification.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a Ga2O3/CuO heterostructure catalyst for enhanced CO2RR to C2+ products.
• To elucidate the synergistic mechanisms between Ga2O3 and CuO active sites.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of Ga2O3/CuO heterostructures using a sol-gel method.
• Electrocatalytic performance evaluation in a flow cell.
• Analysis of reaction pathways and active site stabilization.

Main Results:

• The Ga2O3/CuO catalyst stabilizes Cu+ and enhances water-splitting, forming Cu0/Cu+/Ga active centers.
• Hydrogen absorption on Ga sites promotes asymmetric C-C coupling ( *OCCHO pathway).
• Achieved 70.1% C2+ Faradaic efficiency at -1.2 V RHE, with 58.3% ethylene selectivity and 10-hour stability.

Conclusions:

• Ga2O3/CuO heterostructures offer a promising pathway for highly selective CO2RR to multi-carbon products.
• The catalyst design effectively addresses limitations in CO2RR activity and selectivity.
• This work provides insights into heterostructure-mediated synergistic effects in electrocatalysis.