How to select heterogeneous CO₂ reduction electrocatalyst

As an important part of carbon neutralization, carbon dioxide electroreduction reaction (CO₂RR) can convert CO₂ into high value-added chemicals and fuels to realize the recycling of carbon resources and solve the problem of environmental pollution. Therefore, exploring the element species and surface structure of the catalyst plays a central role in improving the performance of the catalyst, enhancing the CO₂ conversion efficiency and forming C₁ and C₂₊ products. Here, we summarize the recent progress in the selective regulation of CO₂RR reaction products by different elements. In particular, we emphasize the structure-property relationship of CO₂RR by the microenvironment of metal center and substrate, heteroatom doping, hydrogen bond network of metal-free polymer, and construction of heterogeneous catalytic system. At the same time, the recent advances for the identification of CO₂RR active sites and mechanistic studies on the process of reducing CO₂ conversion to different products are reviewed, as well as a comprehensive review to the final products. Finally, we outline the inevitable challenges faced by CO₂RR and present our own recommendations aimed at contributing to CO₂ resource utilization.