Ionic liquids enhance the electrochemical CO2 reduction catalyzed by MoO2

Several imidazolium-based ionic liquids significantly enhance the activity of MoO2 for electrochemical reduction of CO2. The over-potential of CO2 reduction is as low as 40 mV. The ionic liquids act as both electrolytes and co-catalysts, which not only leads to lower overpotentials, but also alters the product selectivity.