The role of anions and additives in electrochemical CO2 reduction

The electrochemical reduction of CO 2 (eCO 2 R) is governed by complex interactions at the electrode - electrolyte interface. Recent studies show that electrolyte species in the electrical double layer can strongly affect the CO 2 reduction activity and selectivity. While the role of cations in eCO 2 R is relatively well understood, recent studies show that anions and molecular additives can be equally influential. Here, we discuss how these species can facilitate eCO 2 R intermediate stabilization and suppress the hydrogen evolution reaction, enhancing the activity and selectivity of eCO 2 R.