The review article systematically summarizes recent progress in electrolytic cells used for in-situ/operando SR studies of CO₂RR.

The electrocatalytic carbon dioxide reduction reaction (CO₂RR) is a promising technology for converting CO₂ into valuable chemicals, supporting efforts toward carbon neutrality. Understanding its mechanism requires real-time monitoring of catalyst structure and intermediates under operating conditions. Synchrotron radiation (SR) techniques provide powerful tools for such in-situ/operando studies. However, the design of electrolytic cells compatible with SR characterization remains challenging, limiting the acquisition of accurate, multi-scale structural information during CO₂RR.

A review article titled “Recent advances in electrolytic cells for synchrotron radiation characterization of electrocatalytic CO₂ reduction” has been published in Frontiers in Energy. The work was contributed by Zhaojun Wu, Weidong Cheng, Xin Wang, Huanyan Liu, Xiang Chen, Zhuolun Sui, and corresponding author Zhonghua Wu from Qiqihar University and the Chinese Academy of Sciences. The article systematically summarizes recent progress in electrolytic cells used for in-situ/operando SR studies of CO₂RR.

The review introduces and categorizes electrolytic cells used with SR techniques such as X-ray scattering, X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), vibrational spectroscopy, and combined methods. It details cell configurations adapted for different measurement modes—including transmission and fluorescence XAS, grazing-incidence small-angle X-ray scattering (GISAXS), and Raman spectroscopy—highlighting key design considerations such as window materials, electrode placement, and electrolyte thickness. Examples of specialized cells, including flow cells and membrane electrode assemblies (MEA), are discussed to illustrate how they enable real-time observation of structural and electronic changes in catalysts during CO₂RR.

This comprehensive overview aids in the rational design of electrolytic cells compatible with SR techniques, enabling deeper insights into the CO₂RR mechanism at atomic and molecular scales. It supports the development of more efficient and stable electrocatalysts and promotes the application of combined characterization techniques for multi-scale analysis. The review serves as a valuable reference for designing in-situ sample environments, contributing to the advancement of sustainable carbon-negative technologies.

Original source:

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11708-024-0968-y

https://journal.hep.com.cn/fie/EN/10.1007/s11708-024-0968-y

Shareable link:https://rdcu.be/eSqfn

Keywords:

electrolytic cell / carbon dioxide reduction reaction (CO₂RR) / synchrotron radiation (SR) / in-situ / operando