Asymmetric Coordination Environment Engineering of Atomic Catalysts for CO2 Reduction

Single-atom catalysts (SACs) have emerged as well-known catalysts in renewable energy storage and conversion systems. Several supports have been developed for stabilizing single-atom catalytic sites, e.g., organic-, metal-, and carbonaceous matrices. Noticeably, the metal species and their local atomic coordination environments have a strong influence on the electrocatalytic capabilities of metal atom active centers. In particular, asymmetric atom electrocatalysts exhibit unique properties and an unexpected carbon dioxide reduction reaction (CO2RR) performance different from those of traditional metal-N-4 sites. This review summarizes the recent development of asymmetric atom sites for the CO2RR with emphasis on the coordination structure regulation strategies and their effects on CO2RR performance. Ultimately, several scientific possibilities are proffered with the aim of further expanding and deepening the advancement of asymmetric atom electrocatalysts for the CO2RR.

Automated summary

Single-atom catalysts (SACs) are widely used in renewable energy storage and conversion systems. Various supports, such as organic, metal, and carbonaceous matrices, have been developed to stabilize single-atom catalytic sites. The coordination structure of metal species greatly affects the electrocatalytic capabilities of metal atom active centers, especially in asymmetric atom electrocatalysts that exhibit unique properties and different CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) performance. This review summarizes the recent development of asymmetric atom sites for CO2RR and emphasizes the strategies for regulating coordination structure and its effect on CO2RR performance. It also proposes scientific possibilities to further advance asymmetric atom electrocatalysts for CO2RR.