Work

Advanced X-ray absorption spectroscopy for probing dynamics in CO2 reduction reaction electrocatalysts

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Electrochemical CO2 conversion to value-added fuels presents an appealing avenue to realize low-carbon footprint. However, achieving sustainable energy conversion hinges on a comprehensive analysis of the catalyst surface-interface. X-ray Absorption Fine Structure (XAFS) spectroscopy emerges as a pivotal characterization technique to facilitate a profound comprehension of the structure-activity relationship at atomic and electronic scales. Particularly, it can serve as an efficient tool for in-situ monitoring of the dynamic evolution and surface-interface configuration of catalysts. Herein, we highlight the advantages of the traditional XAFS technique in probing charge transfer, electronic structure, valence state, geometric structure and local coordination environments, along with its application for discerning critical configurations and dynamic transformations of CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) electrocatalysts with high spatial-temporal resolution. Advanced XAFS techniques at next-generation synchrotron facilities hold great potential for unraveling the intricate processes and mechanisms of CO2RR. X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy is pivotal for analyzing catalyst surface interfaces. This Review highlights the advantages of X-ray Absorption fine structure spectroscopy for identifying configurations and dynamic transformations of CO2 reduction reaction electrocatalysts.

Source: Communications Materials

DOI: 10.1038/s43246-025-00779-2

Authors: Beibei Sheng, Dengfeng Cao, Shuangming Chen, Nan Zhang, Jianqiang Wang, Li Song

Institutions: Sinopec (China), University of Science and Technology of China, National Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory, SINOPEC Shanghai Research Institute of Petrochemical Technology

Language: English

Topic: CO2 Reduction Techniques and Catalysts

Subfield: Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment

Field: Energy

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Affordable and clean energy, Climate action

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,690