Transforming CO2: Cu's Role in Bimetallic Catalysts

Ever wondered how we can turn carbon dioxide (CO2) into something useful, like fuel? This is where copper (Cu) comes in. As a unique element in the periodic table, Cu can convert CO2 into valuable products such as ethylene (C2H4) and ethanol (C2H5OH). But Cu isn't perfect—it has low activity and poor selectivity. Enter the tandem catalytic strategy: it solves these issues by combining Cu with other metals. The key to improving selectivity is managing the formation, movement, sticking, and joining of the intermediate carbon monoxide (CO).Cu-based bimetallic catalysts excel at this due to their cooperative effects and electron influences. Scientists have discovered that different structures of these bimetallic catalysts boost activity and selectivity by controlling the intermediate CO. They've also proposed effective strategies to design these catalysts better. The future holds challenges and opportunities for Cu-based bimetallic catalysts, as researchers continue to unlock their potential.