Electrochemical CO₂ reduction and material transportation analysis in the case for zero-gap-type reactor

Abstract

The study of electrochemical conversion of atmospheric CO2 into value-added products has been attracting attention since the 1970s. Early investigations revealed a wide distribution of reduced carbonaceous species derived from copper (Cu) metal cathodes. Since the zero-gap-type reactors operate at relatively low full-cell voltages and high current densities, extensive research has been conducted on systems combining Cu cathodes with zero-gap configurations. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the historical development of electrochemical CO2 reduction. Furthermore, it addresses key challenges for enhancing long-term operational durability associated with the zero-gap-type reactor, and the phenomena of flooding and salt precipitation at the cathode are clarified.