Electrochemical CO(2) reduction toward multicarbon alcohols - The microscopic world of catalysts & process conditions

Tackling climate change is one of the undoubtedly most important challenges at the present time. This review deals mainly with the chemical aspects of the current status for converting the greenhouse gas CO(2) via electrochemical CO(2) reduction reaction (CO(2)RR) to multicarbon alcohols as valuable products. Feasible reaction routes are presented, as well as catalyst synthesis methods such as electrodeposition, precipitation, or sputtering. In addition, a comprehensive overview of the currently achievable selectivities for multicarbon alcohols in CO(2)RR is given. It is also outlined to what extent, for example, modifications of the catalyst surfaces or the use of bifunctional compounds the product distribution is shifted. In addition, the influence of varying electrolyte, temperature, and pressure is described and discussed.