Progress of porous ceramics applied for solar thermochemical CO production

Using metal oxides as carriers, the solar-driven two-step reaction can efficiently convert CO₂ into clean fuel, thereby promoting carbon emission reduction and renewable energy production simultaneously. The solar-to-fuel conversion efficiency is directly determined by the design, parameters, composition, and structure of the solar reactor. This work is comprehensively reviewed based on state of the art CeO₂ and perovskites. It covers key aspects such as the mechanism of thermochemical CO₂ decomposition by metal oxides, the influence of metal ion doping on redox reaction activity, and the impact of morphological specificity and pore structure on thermal radiation, mass transfer properties, and fuel generation kinetics. Additionally, prospective porous structure fabrication technologies with high applicability potential but currently underexplored in thermochemical cycles are highlighted. Key insights are presented for the design and fabrication of porous ceramics in solar thermal chemical fuel synthesis, bridging sustainable energy conversion with technological advancements.