Acidic CO₂ electroreduction for high CO₂ utilization: catalysts, electrodes, and electrolyzers

The electrochemical carbon dioxide (CO₂) reduction reaction (CO₂RR) is considered a promising technology for converting atmospheric CO₂ into value-added compounds by utilizing renewable energy. The CO₂RR has developed in various ways over the past few decades, including product selectivity, current density, and catalytic stability. However, its commercialization is still unsuitable in terms of economic feasibility. One of the major challenges in its commercialization is the low single-pass conversion efficiency (SPCE) of CO₂, which is primarily caused by the formation of carbonate (CO₃²⁻) in neutral and alkaline electrolytes. Notably, the majority of CO₂RRs take place in such media, necessitating significant energy input for CO₂ regeneration. Therefore, performing the CO₂RR under conditions that minimize CO₃²⁻ formation to suppress reactant and electrolyte ion loss is regarded an optimal strategy for practical applications. Here, we introduce the recent progress and perspectives in the electrochemical CO₂RR in acidic electrolytes, which receives great attention because of the inhibition of CO₃²⁻ formation. This includes the categories of nanoscale catalytic design, microscale microenvironmental effects, and bulk scale applications in electrolyzers for zero carbon loss reactions. Additionally, we offer insights into the issue of limited catalytic durability, a notable drawback under acidic conditions and propose guidelines for further development of the acidic CO₂RR.