Electrochemical CO₂ reduction: From catalysts to reactive thermodynamics and kinetics

The carbon dioxide electroreduction reaction (CO₂RR) can convert CO₂ into value-added fuels or chemicals, thus becoming a promising approach for balancing the carbon cycle and realizing a low-carbon economy. Here, we describe in detail the preparation, performance, reaction mechanism and theoretical research progress of four representative CO₂RR catalysts, including metal-based electrocatalysts, single-atom electrocatalysts, porphyrin-based complexes and biomass-derived nonmetallic carbon-based materials. In particular, the electrochemical thermodynamic framework, kinetics, and thermodynamic-kinetic correlation in the CO₂RR are discussed. The concept of thermodynamic-kinetic synergy and some perspectives on the future design of electrocatalysts are also presented, with the aim of facilitating research and development in this area.