Revolutionizing CO2‐to‐C2 Conversion: Unleashing the Potential of CeO2 Nanocores for Self‐ Supported Electrocatalysts with Cu2O Nanoflakes on 3D Graphene Aerogel

Abstract

AbstractCu serves as a promising electrocatalyst for converting CO2 into valuable C2 products in CO2 reduction reactions (CO2RR). However, instability in CO* formation is crucial for CO2 adsorption‐ desorption still remains a challenge under reduction conditions. This study explores the impact of lanthanide oxide, particularly CeO2, on Cu‐based catalytic performances. By leveraging Ce's distinctive electronic structure, CO* species are stabilized during the reaction in CeO2─Cu2O, resulting in exceptional catalytic performance for CO2 electroreduction to C2 products. Hybridizing CeO2‐Cu2O with graphene aerogel enhances electrochemical active surface area and CO2RR efficiency. The resulting CeO2─Cu2O(10%)/GA electrocatalyst exhibits a remarkable faradaic efficiency for C2 products, exceeding 62%, alongside exceptional stability over 80 h with wide potential window (−0.8 to −1.2 V) using a H‐cell. Systematic investigations elucidate the intricate interplay between surface properties and catalytic activity. Furthermore, a solar cell‐ powered CO2 reduction system demonstrates consistent performance (−27.8 mA cm−2 at 3.46 V) under solar radiation of ≈100 mW cm−2, showcasing outstanding stability with nearly 100% retention over 4 h of continuous illumination. In short, by harnessing catalytic and electronic effects, this innovation advances the development of electrocatalysts with heightened CO2‐to‐C2 selectivity, bridging fundamental research with technological innovation to tackle critical global challenges.