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The composition of the catalyst layer plays an important role in the carbon dioxide reduction reaction (CO 2 RR), since it influences greatly the mass diffusion rate and the accessibility of active sites. Until now, tremendous efforts have been dedicated to the development of cathode materials with innovative characteristics, while scarce efforts have been concentrated on the study of the catalyst layer aiming at maximizing the performance of the electrodes toward the CO 2 RR. This work focuses on a full investigation of the key electrode components and their effects on the CO 2 RR performance. It is found that all key components such as Nafion binder, zinc oxide catalyst and carbon black conductor significantly affect the current density and the faradaic efficiency for carbon monoxide (CO) formation. [Display omitted] • A thorough study of the composition of a ZnO-based electrode is conducted for CO 2 RR. • All key components show significant effects on CO selectivity and production rate. • Nafion favors charge transfer while it limits electron transport and CO 2 diffusion. • Carbon black considerably increases electrical conductivity. • ZnO loading is associated with the number of active sites and their accessibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]