Two-dimensional metal carbides for electro- and photocatalytic CO2 reduction: Review

Two-dimensional metal carbides have recently emerged as a promising catalyst for photo- and electrocatalytic CO2 reduction processes due to their high surface area to volume ratio and the vast number of active sites. The surface engineering of transition metal carbides (TMCs) governs the selectivity of specific hydrocarbon formation via a CO2 reduction reaction. Herein, we briefly discuss theoretical models based on the Density Functional Theory (DFT) studies and practical perspective on optimizing surface engineered TMCs and their composites, including tungsten carbide (WC), titanium carbide (TiC), and molybdenum carbide (MoC). In this consolidated review, we provide a reference guide to the key aspects and the most recent data on the properties of 2D metal carbides for the development of an efficient catalyst for photo- and electrocatalytic CO2 reduction.