Constructing asymmetric double-atomic sites for synergistic catalysis of electrochemical CO(2) reduction

Elucidating the synergistic catalytic mechanism between multiple active centers is of great significance for heterogeneous catalysis; however, finding the corresponding experimental evidence remains challenging owing to the complexity of catalyst structures and interface environment. Here we construct an asymmetric TeN(2)–CuN(3) double-atomic site catalyst, which is analyzed via full-range synchrotron pair distribution function. In electrochemical CO(2) reduction, the catalyst features a synergistic mechanism with the double-atomic site activating two key molecules: operando spectroscopy confirms that the Te center activates CO(2), and the Cu center helps to dissociate H(2)O. The experimental and theoretical results reveal that the TeN(2)–CuN(3) could cooperatively lower the energy barriers for the rate-determining step, promoting proton transfer kinetics. Therefore, the TeN(2)–CuN(3) displays a broad potential range with high CO selectivity, improved kinetics and good stability. This work presents synthesis and characterization strategies for double-atomic site catalysts, and experimentally unveils the underpinning mechanism of synergistic catalysis.