Evaluating the role of experimental parameters in properly tailoring the growth and shape of cuprite particles

Electrochemistry is a very promising and appealing technology able to accomplish the conversion of carbon dioxide (CO2), the most significant greenhouse gas, into valuable C1-C2+ products following electrochemical processes alternative to the traditional petroleum-based ones [1]. In this context, nanostructured copper oxides, primarily cuprous oxide (Cu2O) and cupric oxide (CuO), have emerged as very appealing catalytic substrates owing to their tunable physicochemical properties, low cost, and proper C—O adsorption capacity able to promote the generation of both C1 and C2+ products [2]. Unfortunately, due to their poor selectivity, it is difficult to optimize the catalytic process towards the production of a specific CO2-derived compound, thus limiting the industrialization of the entire process. Among the potential strategies available for the enhancement of C—C coupling reactions and, consequently, favoring the C2+ compound production is the design of the electrocatalysts’ morphology and size, by altering surface characteristics and exposing specific crystal facets. Exerting a precise nanostructure control and facet engineering are two fundamental requirements for achieving a targeted activity and selectivity in such electrocatalytic processes. In this regard, the employment of structure directing agents and capping agents during the synthesis is a useful strategy to regulate the crystals growth. Hence, we have systematically explored the synthesis of Cu2O particles following a simple co-precipitation route using a systematic combination of capping/reducing agents, investigating both a single-component (glucose) and a bi-component (PVP/ascorbic acid) routes. The final objective is the evaluation of the mechanistic role of the ingredients in the formation of specific crystal facets. Furthermore, the role of multiple synthesis conditions (i.e., reaction volume, synthesis temperature and time, concentration of capping/reducing agent, selection of Cu precursors) in favoring the formation of specific crystal morphologies is explored, and relevant considerations highlighted. References [1] C. Tricella, M. Muhyuddin, R. Nisticò, S. Tosoni, C. Santoro (2025) ‘Recent advancements related to silver-based electrocatalysts for carbon dioxide reduction reaction to carbon monoxide’, Curr. Opin. Electrochem. 51:101696. [2] A.R. Waldu, Z. Huang, P. Zhao, L. Hu, D. Astruc (2022) ‘Electrochemical CO2 reduction (CO2RR) to multi-carbon products over copper-based catalysts’, Coord. Chem. Rev. 454:214340.