Electro- and Photoreduction of Carbon Dioxide: The Twain Shall Meet at Copper Oxide/Copper Interfaces

Of the myriad electrode materials that have been used for electrochemical (EC) and photoelectrochemical (PEC) reduction of carbon dioxide in aqueous media, copper oxide/copper interfaces have shown a remarkable range of hydrocarbon and oxygenated products including acids, aldehydes, ketones, and alcohols. This Perspective highlights experimental evidence for the fact that both EC and PEC reduction scenarios have similar chemical and morphological underpinnings in the in situ formation of copper nano- or microcubes on the (photo)cathode surface. Recent rapid developments in our fundamental understanding of these interfaces and areas requiring further studies are discussed in light of recent studies in the authors’ laboratories and elsewhere.