Stabilization of Cu Via Strong Electronic Interaction for Selective and Stable CO Electroreduction

Copper oxide-based materials effectively electrocatalyze carbon dioxide reduction (CO RR). To comprehend their role and achieve high CO RR activity, Cu in copper oxides must be stabilized. As an electrocatalyst, Cu O nanoparticles were decorated with hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) nanosheets to stabilize Cu . The C H /CO ratio increased 1.62-fold in the CO RR with Cu O-BN compared to that with Cu O. Experimental and theoretical studies confirmed strong electronic interactions between the two components in Cu O-BN, which strengthens the Cu-O bonds. Electrophilic h-BN receives partial electron density from Cu O, protecting the Cu-O bonds from electron attack during the CO RR and stabilizing the Cu species during long-term electrolysis. The well-retained Cu species enhanced the C product selectivity and improved the stability of Cu O-BN. This work offers new insight into the metal-valence-state-dependent selectivity of catalysts, enabling the design of advanced catalysts.