Highly efficient electrocatalysis for the fixation of CO2 into cyclic carbonates with carbon sphere-loaded copper nanoparticles cathode material

Unlocking Catalytic Potential: Exploring the Impact of Thermal Treatment on Enhanced Electrocatalysis of Nanomaterials

In the evolving field of electrocatalysis, thermal treatment of nano-electrocatalysts has become an essential strategy for performance enhancement. This review systematically investigates the impact of various thermal treatments on the catalytic potential of nano-electrocatalysts. The focus encompasses an in-depth analysis of the changes induced in structural, morphological, and compositional properties, as well as alterations in electro-active surface area, surface chemistry, and crystal defects. By providing a comprehensive comparison of commonly used thermal techniques, such as annealing, calcination, sintering, pyrolysis, hydrothermal, and solvothermal methods, this review serves as a scientific guide for selecting the right thermal technique and favorable temperature to tailor the nano-electrocatalysts for optimal electrocatalysis. The resultant modifications in catalytic activity are explored across key electrochemical reactions such as electrochemical (bio)sensing, catalytic degradation, oxygen reduction reaction, hydrogen evolution reaction, overall water splitting, fuel cells, and carbon dioxide reduction reaction. Through a detailed examination of the underlying mechanisms and synergistic effects, this review contributes to a fundamental understanding of the role of thermal treatments in enhancing electrocatalytic properties. The insights provided offer a roadmap for future research aimed at optimizing the electrocatalytic performance of nanomaterials, fostering the development of next-generation sensors and energy conversion technologies.

Nitrogen-doped mesoporous carbon supported CuSb for electroreduction of CO2

The construction of an efficient catalyst for electrocatalytic reduction of CO₂ to high value-added fuels has received extensive attention. Herein, nitrogen-doped mesoporous carbon (NMC) was used to support CuSb to prepare a series of materials for electrocatalytic reduction of CO₂ to CH₄. The catalytic activity of the composites was significantly improved compared with that of Cu/NMC. In addition, the Cu content also influenced the activity of electrocatalytic CO₂ reduction reaction. Among the materials used, the CuSb/NMC-2 (Cu: 5.9 wt%, Sb: 0.49 wt%) catalyst exhibited the best performance for electrocatalytic CO₂ reduction, and the faradaic efficiency of CH₄ reached 35%, and the total faradaic efficiency of C1–C2 products reached 67%.

CuSb anchored onto nitrogen-doped mesoporous carbon (CuSb/NMC) were prepared for electroreduction of CO₂ to CH₄, C₂H₄ and CO.