Electrochemical CO2 Reduction to Formate Over Tin-Based Cathode in Divided Electrochemical Cell

Abstract

Electrochemical carbon dioxide reduction has emerged as a promising approach for converting greenhouse gas emissions into value-added chemicals and renewable fuels under sustainable operating conditions. The present study investigates the electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide to formate using a tin-based cathode in a divided electrochemical cell, with emphasis on reaction selectivity, current efficiency, and electrochemical performance optimization. Tin-based cathode materials were evaluated due to their favorable catalytic activity, low hydrogen evolution tendency, and high selectivity toward formate formation. Experimental analysis was conducted to examine the influence of applied potential, electrolyte concentration, pH, membrane separation, carbon dioxide flow rate, and reaction time on product yield and energy efficiency. Results demonstrate that the divided electrochemical cell configuration effectively minimizes product crossover and enhances electrochemical stability, thereby improving formate production efficiency and catalyst durability. The study further reveals that optimized operating conditions significantly enhance carbon dioxide adsorption and electron transfer kinetics at the cathode surface, promoting selective formate generation while suppressing competing hydrogen evolution reactions. Increased electrolyte conductivity and controlled reaction parameters contributed to higher Faradaic efficiency and stable long-term electrochemical operation. Comparative assessment with conventional catalytic reduction methods confirms the environmental and operational advantages of electrochemical conversion processes, including lower operating temperatures, reduced chemical consumption, and compatibility with renewable electricity sources. In addition, the produced formate possesses potential applications in energy storage, fuel cells, and chemical manufacturing industries.