3D-printing technologies for C1 chemistry

Abstract

One-carbon (C1) molecules (including carbon dioxide [CO₂], carbon monoxide [CO], methane [CH₄], and methanol [CH₃OH]) are abundant carbon feedstocks and important conversion platforms. To promote the utilization of C1 molecules, three-dimensional (3D)-printing technologies pave an avenue of digital additive manufacturing for the conversion of C1 molecules into high-value-added chemicals. This perspective highlights the progress and challenges of 3D-printing technologies for the conversion of C1 molecules. We systematically analyze the design and preparation of 3D-printed reactors, catalysts, and electrodes in the conversion of C1 molecules. Further, we summarize and discuss their technical features and challenges to reveal the revolutionary nature of 3D-printing technologies. The goal of this perspective is to provide guidance and suggestions for accelerating the development of digitalization, automation, and intelligentization in chemical synthesis.