Electrifying CO₂ into Chemicals and Fuels with Single Atom Catalysts

Electrochemical conversion of atmospheric molecules (CO₂, O₂, H₂O, N₂) into fuels and chemicals offers a green and sustainable alternative to traditional manufacturing processes. However, this approach faces significant challenges at two systemic levels: the development of electrocatalysts that are active, selective, and stable for efficient chemical conversions, and the design of innovative catalytic reactors that achieve practical reaction rates and efficient product separation. In this talk, I will discuss the rational design strategies for both single atom catalysts and reactors, using CO₂ reduction reaction as a representative example. These advancements are critical for the practical implementation of electrochemical manufacturing processes for fuels and chemicals, and they highlight the potential for scalable and sustainable energy solutions.