Recognizing the Universality of Copper Reconstruction Via Dissolution–Redeposition at the Onset of CO 2 Reduction
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: High Resolution Image Download MS PowerPoint Slide The electrochemical CO 2 reduction (ECO 2 R) on copper (Cu) remains one of the most promising pathways to convert CO 2 into value-added products. However, it suffers from severe restructuring, resulting in the unknown structural identity of the ECO 2 R active catalyst. Here, we show that dissolution–redeposition is the universal early-stage restructuring mechanism in ECO 2 R, occurring across all the tested Cu morphologies, including foils, nanoparticles, oxide-derived films, and gas diffusion electrodes. Using identical location scanning electron microscopy, we directly visualize and confirm that this transformation begins at the reaction onset, reshaping catalyst morphology and complicating structure–activity interpretations. Our findings demonstrate that all the Cu catalysts act as precursors to their true, in situ -formed active phase, generated through the reduction of Cu oxides and electrolyte-driven dissolution-redeposition. Recognizing the universality of this transformation is essential for accurate mechanistic understanding and the rational design of future Cu-based ECO 2 R catalysts.
Authors: Blaž Tomc, Marjan Bele, Matic Plut, Mitja Kostelec, Stefan Popović, Mohammed Azeezulla Nazrulla, Francisco Ruiz-Zepeda, Ana Rebeka Kamšek, Martin Šala, Adam Elbataioui, Lidija D. Rafailović, Yasmin Bastos Pissolitto, Francisco Trivinho-Strixino, Wojciech Jerzy Stępniowski, Luka Suhadolnik, Nejc Hodnik
Language: English
Field: Energy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $4,500
Awards: G1328402316, Fabrication and photoelectrochemical characterization of anodic oxide coatings by anodization of self-passivating metals, G2051776107, Electrochemically grown bimetallic Cu-Zn nanostructured catalysts for cost efficient electrochemical carbon dioxide reduction into added-value chemicals, Unlocking the Selective Catalytic Conversion Processes of CO2 to Ethanol – UliSess, Advanced materials for low-carbon and sustainable society, Infrastructural program of National institute of Chemistry, G5099095482, Pt-based intermetallic alloy catalysts for improved performance of high-temperature PEM fuel cells with reduced Pt loading, Fundamental understanding of Hydrogen Evolution Reaction for a new generation of nickel-based electrocatalysts in alkaline water and chlor-alkali electrolysis, Analytics and Chemical Characterization of Materials and Processes
OpenAlex ID: W4413974355