Photodriven CO₂ Hydrogenation into Diverse Products: Recent Progress and Perspective

Converting CO₂ into value-added chemicals through hydrogenation can optimize the energy structure dominated by fossil energy, effectively alleviate environmental problems, and achieve full utilization of carbon resources. However, the traditional CO₂ hydrogenation reactions need to be carried out under high temperature and pressure, causing inevitable secondary pollution to the environment. A fundamental way to solve these problems is to use clean solar energy to convert CO₂ into value-added chemicals and to establish an artificial carbon cycle process. In this Perspective, we highlight recent advances in photodriven CO₂ conversion, including the reverse water-gas-shift reaction, methanation reaction, methanol synthesis reaction, and C₂₊ hydrocarbon synthesis reaction. Finally, we also discuss the challenges and future investigation opportunities for modulating the selective conversion of CO₂. This Perspective offers guidance for the design of photodriven CO₂ conversion or even the entire C1 catalyst chemistry for tuning product selectivity and activity.