A comparative overview of the electrochemical valorization and incorporation of CO2 in industrially relevant compounds

Climate change is a critical global challenge that requires urgent action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, including carbon dioxide (CO2). While essential efforts are being made to reduce emissions by developing new manufacturing processes, it is also crucial to scrutinize sustainable uses for the CO2 that is already produced in excess. The electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (eCO2RR) is a highly promising and versatile approach for converting CO2 into valuable base chemicals and fuels, effectively decarbonizing the chemical industry. New methodologies and electrocatalysts in this area are increasingly being investigated, emphasizing the necessary transition to a more sustainable future. In this review, we focus on the eCO2RR coupled with incorporation in organic or inorganic reactants towards key industrial compounds such as carboxylic acids, ureas and dimethyl carbonate. We provide a broader context by outlining the current industrial synthesis methods of the envisioned compounds. Recent work is summarized in tables for quick comparison while innovations and improvements regarding sustainability and applicability are addressed in more detail.