Electrocatalytic CO Reduction in Acids: A Groundbreaking Approach to Converting CO into Fuels and Feedstocks.

The electrocatalytic carbon dioxide reduction reaction (CORR) at industrial-level current densities provides a sustainable approach to converting CO into value-added fuels and feedstocks using renewable electricity. However, the CORR conducted typically in alkaline and neutral electrolytes encounters some challenges due to the inevitable reaction between CO and OH ions, which undermines CO utilization and leads to poor operational stability. Acidic media present a viable alternative by reducing (bi)carbonate production, thereby enhancing the carbon efficiency and stability in CORR. The objective of this paper is to provide a concise account of the recent advancements and challenges in the field of acidic CORR, with an emphasis on future developments and opportunities.