This review summarizes the significant impact of environmental conditions on the efficiency and selectivity of electrocatalytic carbon dioxide reduction reactions in terms of reactor type, electrolyte composition, pressure, and temperature.

Abstract

In order to address the greenhouse effect and achieve the artificial carbon cycle, the electrocatalytic reduction reactions offer an effective approach for converting carbon dioxide (CO₂) into valuable chemicals. In addition to the rational design of catalyst structure to improve the high selective conversion of CO₂, exploring the influence of environmental conditions on the reaction path and product types is one of the keys to realizing the high selective conversion of CO₂. In this review, we illustrate the important influence of changes in environmental conditions on the effectiveness of electrocatalytic carbon dioxide reduction reaction (CO₂RR) technology from the design of the reactor, the selection of the electrolyte, and the setting of the reaction conditions (pressure, temperature, etc.). Through in-depth understanding and optimization of these factors, the efficiency and selectivity of the CO₂RR can be further improved to promote the development of CO₂ conversion technology.