Southeast University and Korea University Develop Advanced Copper Catalysts for CO2 Conversion

In a press release, researchers from Southeast University in China and Korea University announced the development of advanced copper catalysts that improve the conversion of carbon dioxide into fuels and chemicals. The study, published in the journal Small Structures on April 25, 2026, focuses on enhancing catalyst stability, selectivity, and scalability for electrochemical CO2 reduction.

The team, led by Professors Xiangzhou Yuan and Yong Sik Ok, engineered copper-based electrocatalysts designed to promote carbon–carbon coupling, a key step in forming multi-carbon products such as ethylene and ethanol. The approach integrates tandem catalytic effects, optimized charge transfer interactions, and geometric control of atomic spacing to improve reaction pathways.

The researchers highlighted the role of maintaining multiple oxidation states of copper, particularly Cu0 and Cu+, to stabilize intermediates and reduce energy barriers during conversion. They also studied how environmental factors such as pH, electrolyte composition, and CO2 concentration affect catalyst performance.

To speed up development, the team incorporated machine learning models to predict performance and guide experiments. This data-driven approach reduced trial and error and improved design efficiency. The researchers aim to connect catalyst design with reactor optimization to support industrial use of carbon recycling systems powered by renewable energy.