Cu MOF-based electrocatalysts for CO2 reduction to multi-carbon products

The electrocatalytic CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) shows great promise in realizing a carbon-neutral cycle by converting CO2 into value-added chemicals and fuels, especially multi-carbon products (C2+) with higher energy density. Cu metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) and their derivatives with high chemistry tunability, large surface area, and unique pore structures have been explored as potential catalysts for the CO2RR to C2+ products. Herein, recent progress of Cu MOF-based electrocatalysts for electrocatalytic CO2 to C2+ products is summarized. First, electrolyzer types, performance evaluation parameters, and the reaction mechanism of the CO2RR to C2+ products are briefly provided. Then, the three types of Cu MOF-based catalysts (Cu-based MOFs, Cu-based MOF composites, and Cu-based MOF derivatives) are discussed in detail, emphasizing electrocatalytic performance enhancement strategies and mechanisms. Finally, we highlight the critical challenges and potential opportunities for designing highly efficient MOF-based catalysts to convert CO2 to C2+ products.