A mini review on post-C-C coupling mediated CO₂ electroreduction to C₂₊ alcohols

The electrochemical CO₂ reduction reaction (CO₂RR), which can convert CO₂ into high-value chemicals and fuels, presents a promising and sustainable strategy to address environmental and energy challenges. The proton and electron transfer processes following C-C coupling significantly affect the reaction pathway toward alcohols or C₂H₄. To date, few reviews have specifically addressed this process and its impact on C₂₊ product selectivity. Recent studies have demonstrated that regulating proton transfer dynamics post C-C coupling is an effective strategy to enhance alcohol production. This mini review highlights how modulating the post-C-C coupling process can improve the efficiency of the CO₂RR toward C₂₊ alcohols and suppress undesired C₂H₄ formation. We first introduce the catalytic mechanism and reaction pathway of the CO₂RR toward alcohols. Subsequently, we summarize and analyze modulation strategies for post-C-C coupling, including interface engineering, defect engineering, morphology tuning, alloying and surface modification. Finally, current research limitations are discussed and perspectives for future investigations are outlined. This mini review provides new insights into CO₂RR mechanisms and offers guidance for the rational design of efficient catalysts for the selective production of C₂₊ alcohols.