Stabilizing Cu-based catalyst for electrochemical CO2 reduction using incorporated Ni

Abstract

Copper-based catalysts exhibit an excellent ability in producing C₂ chemicals during CO₂RR. However, the unsustainable Faradic efficiency (FE) resulting from the reconstruction makes keeping catalyst behavior challengeable. In this study, we synthesized CuO nanosheets and incorporated a small amount of nickel on surface to improve the stability of nanosheets. By inhibiting the dissolution of Cu through the incorporation of Ni, our CuO + Ni-surface catalyst could achieve a double increase in stability compared to CuO nanosheets. Using a combination of electrochemistry, density functional theory calculations, in situ UV–vis spectrometer and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry, we elucidate the mechanisms behind the increased stability. The incorporation of Ni reduces the tendency of Cu oxidation at higher overpotential and strengthens the bonds between surface and subsurface Cu atoms. This work highlights a promising approach to enhance the stability and efficiency of copper-based catalysts in CO₂RR, proposing the way for more sustainable catalytic processes.