Artificial Photothermal Synthesis of Hydrocarbons from CO2 and H2O

Abstract

The excessive release of CO₂ from fossil fuel combustion has disrupted the carbon cycle, leading to elevated greenhouse gas levels. Converting CO₂ into value-added chemicals like CH₄ and C₂H₄ not only offers a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels but also helps mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. However, producing high-energy hydrocarbons involves complex electron and proton coupling, presenting significant kinetic challenges. Photothermal catalysis, which harnesses solar energy in light and heat, emerges as a promising method for efficient CO₂ conversion into hydrocarbons. This process reduces the thermodynamic barriers to CO₂ protonation by enabling rapid proton transfer through thermal assistance. The development of photothermal catalysts capable of absorbing light, generating electron–hole pairs, and facilitating redox reactions is crucial for enhancing efficiency and selectivity. This review highlights the importance of catalyst design, reaction conditions, and reactor configuration, and addresses the lack of comprehensive reviews on the synergistic approach of photothermal catalysis. By focusing on precise catalyst design and photogenerated heat mechanisms, this review aims to advance the field, emphasizing its potential to promote a sustainable and carbon-neutral future.