Rational design of CuPdN nanocrystals for selective electroreduction of carbon dioxide to formic acid.

The selective electrochemical reduction of CO yields value-added products that are important renewable energy resources for carbon recycling. In this study, CuPdN nanocrystals (NCs) exhibited higher electrocatalytic activity for carbon dioxide (CO) reduction to formic acid (HCOOH) than as-prepared CuN and CuPd NCs. In addition, the reaction yielded small amounts of CO (<5%), H, and HCOOH as the main products, and the electrocatalytic activity of the Cu NCs was significantly enhanced by modification with N and Pd. This work demonstrates a simple and effective strategy for improving the electrochemical reduction of CO.