Extrinsic and Electric Field Effects in Electrochemical CO₂ Reduction

Dear Colleagues,

Electrocatalytic CO₂ reduction has been postulated as an attractive technology that could be used to store renewable electricity in value-added chemicals or fuels with the potential to electrify the chemical industry and mitigate CO₂ emissions. Decades of research have led to a relatively good understanding of the fundamental aspects of this electrochemical reaction. A wide variety of electrocatalysts have been studied and developed for the selective formation of different products. Additionally, with the aid of (in situ) spectroelectrochemical and computational techniques, important insights have been revealed—particularly about the activation of CO₂, C-C bond formation, and reaction mechanisms. It is known that process conditions such as (local) pH effects, electrolyte composition, reactor configuration, etc. play an important role in the energetic efficiency and performance of CO₂ electroreduction. However, in order for this technology to have a sustainable impact on society, (chemical) industry and environment, there are still challenges and capability gaps to overcome. The stability of the electrocatalyst is currently one of the major bottlenecks in the field of CO₂ electrocatalysis where significant improvements are needed. Moreover, the development and investigation of a complete system including its periphery (CO₂ electrolyzer and balance of plant) is another key research topic in need of significant advancements.

This Special Issue will contribute to advancing the field of electrocatalytic CO₂ reduction toward upscaling and industrialization. The focus will be on extrinsic and electric field parameters that influence the energetic efficiency or performance of electrocatalytic CO₂ reduction. Submissions are welcome in the form of original research papers, communications, and mini-reviews on topics that include, but are not limited to: electrocatalyst stability and durability, degradation mechanisms and robustness, cation/anion effects, (reactor) design and engineering, influence of process conditions, system-level optimization, long-term operation, scalability, technoeconomic assessments, and innovative technical developments relevant for commercial CO₂ electroreduction.

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• CO₂ reduction 
• Cation effect 
• Anion effect 
• (Local) pH effects
• Electrocatalyst stability 
• Upscaling 
• CO₂ electrolyzer