CO2 to fuel: Role of polymer electrolytes on efficiency and selectivity

• A detailed examination of various electrolyte types and solid polymer electrolytes is presented, offering a comprehensive overview. • The impact of functional groups on enhancing the electrochemical reduction of CO 2 is thoroughly analyzed and discussed. • The challenges and prospects of utilizing polymer electrolytes for the efficient generation of fuels from electrochemical CO 2 reduction are critically examined and addressed. Global primary energy consumption, which heavily depends on fossil fuels, is on track for depletion, with projections suggesting exhaustion by 2100. This trajectory is further compounded by the persistent rise in atmospheric CO 2 levels, currently at 420 ppm, which significantly contributes to climate change and its detrimental environmental consequences. To address this urgent challenge, various strategies have been proposed, including CO 2 capture and storage, as well as its conversion into usable fuels. Leveraging the abundance of CO 2 as a carbon source, coupled with sustainable energy resources such as solar, wind, and thermal energy, holds promise for generating value-added goods while mitigating environmental harm. This review focuses on the electrochemical reduction of CO 2 , presenting a dual-pronged approach aimed at decreasing atmospheric CO 2 levels. The imperative to simultaneously combat declining atmospheric CO 2 concentrations and advance cleaner, sustainable energy sources underscores the urgency of this endeavor. Specifically, we highlight the pivotal role of diverse polymer electrolytes, encompassing cation, anion, and bipolar membranes, in facilitating electrochemical CO 2 reduction. Exploring the impact of functional groups within these membranes on CO 2 reduction reaction provides insights into potential advancements in synthesis of eco-friendly fuel from conversion of CO 2 .