Mechanistic Insights Into Zn‐Promoted CO$_2$ Electroreduction on α‐CuZn Alloys in Aprotic Media

How Zn enhances the performance of Cu electrocatalysts for CO$_2$RR in nonaqueous electrolytes remains an open question. Herein, we address this question by combining electrochemical measurements, kinetic modeling, and DFT calculations to elucidate Zn’s role in boosting the electrocatalytic activity of Cu. Cyclic and linear sweep voltammetry reveal enhanced CO$_2$ reduction activity with increasing Zn content, up to threefold higher current density at 25 wt.% Zn. Kinetic modeling attributes this to improved How Zn enhances the performance of Cu electrocatalysts for CO$_2$RR in nonaqueous electrolytes remains an open question. Herein, we address this question by combining electrochemical measurements, kinetic modeling, and DFT calculations to elucidate Zn’s role
in boosting the electrocatalytic activity of Cu. Cyclic and linear sweep voltammetry reveal enhanced CO$_2$ reduction activity with increasing Zn content, up to threefold higher current density at 25 wt.% Zn. Kinetic modeling attributes this to improved CO$_2$ activation, while DFT confirms that Zn sites energetically stabilize Cu-adsorbed CO$_2$. This work uncovers the mechanism behind CuZn alloys’ superior performance, guiding design of efficient CO$_2$RR catalysts for sustainable energy conversion. ... mehractivation, while DFT confirms that Zn sites energetically stabilize Cu-adsorbed CO$_2$. This work uncovers the mechanism behind CuZn alloys’ superior performance, guiding design of efficient CO$_2$RR catalysts for sustainable energy conversion.