Efficient electrocatalytic conversion of CO₂ to CO using Ag nanoparticles via high temperature thermal shock

Abstract

Exploring catalysts with high catalytic activity and low cost is crucial for promoting the electrocatalytic reduction of CO₂. In this study, Ag nanoparticle catalysts were synthesized on GS carbon and vapor grown carbon fiber (VGCF) carbon carriers using different silver precursors (AgAc, AgNO₃) through the ultrafast high temperature thermal shock method. The experimental results demonstrated that the performance of Ag catalysts for the electrocatalytic reduction of CO₂ to CO could be significantly enhanced by modulating the nanostructure, carrier, and metal loading. The VGCF-AgNO₃-HT nanoparticles exhibited a relatively regular spherical morphology, with smaller particle sizes and uniform distribution. Furthermore, the intricate and overlapping arrangement of VGCF carbon nanofibers contributed to increasing the active area for electrochemical reactions, making it an excellent catalyst carrier. Catalysts with varying Ag loadings were prepared using the thermal shock method, and it was observed that the nanoparticles maintained their superior nanostructures even with increased Ag loading. The Ag-HT-65 catalyst exhibited outstanding catalytic performance, achieving a CO Faradaic efficiency of 93.03% at a potential of −0.8 V (vs. RHE). After 12 h of testing, the CO Faradaic efficiency remained 90%, exhibiting an excellent stability.

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