From Solar Energy to Fuels: Recent Advances in Light-Driven C₁ Chemistry

Catalytic C₁ chemistry based on the activation/conversion of synthesis gas (CO+H₂ ), 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 C₁ transformations require high temperatures and pressures, thereby carrying a significant carbon footprint. In comparison, solar-driven C₁ 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 C₁ chemistry, including solar Fischer-Tropsch synthesis, the water-gas-shift reaction, CO₂ 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 C₁ processes are also discussed.