Electrocatalytic Reduction of CO2 when Using N-Substituted Salts of 2,4,6-Triphenylpyridine

A study is performed of the electrocatalytic activity of substituted pyridine salts (N-hydro-, N‑methyl-, and N-phenyl-2,4,6-triphenylpyridinium perchlorates) in the electroreduction of carbon dioxide to carbon monoxide. The effect the natures of the substituent and the H + source have on the efficiency of the process is determined. The main reasons for the occurrence of the electrocatalytic process are identified, and the values of TOF (catalyst speed) and TON (number of revolutions of the catalyst) are calculated. It is shown that the values of TOF and TON fall as the p K of the acid rises.