Phase-Engineered Catalysts for Photocatalytic Conversion of C₁ Molecules

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Catalysis
• Sustainable Energy

Background:

• Photocatalytic conversion of C1 molecules (e.g., CO2) is key for sustainable energy and carbon neutrality.
• Phase engineering of materials offers a promising strategy to boost photocatalyst performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advances in phase engineering for C1 molecule photocatalytic conversion.
• To provide insights into designing efficient photocatalysts through multi-scale structural regulation.

Main Methods:

• Controlling crystalline phase structures, heterophases, and surface properties.
• Optimizing light absorption, charge separation, and charge transfer.
• Addressing challenges like side-product formation and catalyst stability.

Main Results:

• Phase engineering improves light absorption and charge dynamics in photocatalysts.
• It enhances the activation of targeted C1 molecules.
• It mitigates issues with selectivity and catalyst stability.

Conclusions:

• Phase engineering is a powerful approach for developing advanced photocatalysts for C1 conversion.
• Further research on phase-performance relationships and dynamic mechanisms is needed.
• Scalable preparation methods are crucial for practical applications in sustainable energy.