This article focuses on copper-based catalysts used in the electrochemical reduction of CO₂ (CO₂RR) into valuable chemicals, particularly ethylene and ethanol. Through the use of surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy and density functional theory (DFT), the study identifies key intermediates and specific copper sites responsible for CO₂RR. Ethylene formation occurs through CO dimerization on undercoordinated copper sites, while ethanol production is enabled by compressed copper domains. These findings aim to enhance the design of selective electrocatalysts for industrial applications.
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