Developing indium-oxide based catalysts for efficient hydrogenation of carbon dioxide to methanol: a mini-review

Abstract

While the use of fossil fuels has contributed to the progress and development of human society, the huge amount of CO₂ is emitted, which has led to the deterioration of the ecological environment. Converting CO₂ into valuable methanol is a key strategy for its utilization. In₂O₃ catalyst has attracted much attention due to its high selectivity and performance in methanol production. This paper reviews the structural characteristics, catalytic sites and pathways of In₂O₃, and the latest research progress of In₂O₃-based catalysts in CO₂ hydrogenation to methanol. Moreover, the review outlines various strategies to enhance In-based catalysts, including: (I loading metal particles to promote H₂ dissociation, (II) formation of metal-In₂O₃ interfaces to enhance CO₂ adsorption, (III) bimetallic catalysts to improve catalytic kinetics, (IV) combining In₂O₃ with metal oxides to stabilize surface oxygen vacancies, (V) constructing solid-solution catalysts, and (VI) combining with other catalysts to construct composite catalysts, etc. In₂O₃-based catalysts have broad application prospects in the field of CO₂ hydrogenation to methanol. Through various structural and principle innovations, it is expected to improve the comprehensive performance and provide theoretical guidance for catalyst design.