Shape-controlled electrocatalysts for gas diffusion electrodes in water, and carbon dioxide electrolysis

Abstract

Electrolysis can store intermittent renewable powers into stable chemical bonds through production of chemical products. Therefore, much attention has been attracted to the development of electrolysis. Especially, water electrolysis can generate pure hydrogen gas. CO$_2$ reduction can complete carbon cycle, converting the anthropogenic greenhouse gas into chemical feedstocks. However, the energy conversion efficiency of the electrolysis is limited by sluggish reaction kinetics on the electrodes. Herein, reaction kinetics for the water, and CO$_2$ electrolysis was improved by development of shape-controlled electrocatalysts. The shape controlled electrocatalysts were designed to be applicable to gas diffusion electrode, which is a commercially relevant electrode architecture. Enhanced efficiencies of the electrocatalysts were demonstrated at device levels. Specifically, Ir based oxygen evolution reaction catalysts for the anode, and Sn based CO$_2$ reduction catalysts for the cathode were developed.