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From Solar Energy to Fuels: Recent Advances in Light‐Driven C 1 Chemistry
Author(s) -
Chen Guangbo,
Waterhouse Geoffrey I. N.,
Shi Run,
Zhao Jiaqing,
Li Zhenhua,
Wu LiZhu,
Tung ChenHo,
Zhang Tierui
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
angewandte chemie international edition
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 5.831
H-Index - 550
eISSN - 1521-3773
pISSN - 1433-7851
DOI - 10.1002/anie.201814313
Subject(s) - methane , chemistry , catalysis , commodity chemicals , syngas , solar energy , methanol , hydrocarbon , natural gas , nanotechnology , chemical engineering , organic chemistry , materials science , engineering , electrical engineering
Abstract Catalytic C 1 chemistry based on the activation/conversion of synthesis gas (CO+H 2 ), methane, carbon dioxide, and methanol offers great potential for the sustainable development of hydrocarbon fuels to replace oil, coal, and natural gas. Traditional thermal catalytic processes used for C 1 transformations require high temperatures and pressures, thereby carrying a significant carbon footprint. In comparison, solar‐driven C 1 catalysis offers a greener and more sustainable pathway for manufacturing fuels and other commodity chemicals, although conversion efficiencies are currently too low to justify industry investment. In this Review, we highlight recent advances and milestones in light‐driven C 1 chemistry, including solar Fischer–Tropsch synthesis, the water‐gas‐shift reaction, CO 2 hydrogenation, as well as methane and methanol conversion reactions. Particular emphasis is placed on the rational design of catalysts, structure–reactivity relationships, as well as reaction mechanisms. Strategies for scaling up solar‐driven C 1 processes are also discussed.