Ion-paired porous reactors for converting diluted CO₂ into S-formylated products

The efficient utilization of CO₂ is crucial for closing the anthropogenic carbon cycle. While current research predominantly focuses on using high-purity CO₂ sources, practical applications often involve dilute CO₂ streams that require energy-intensive pre-concentration. This study developed an ion-paired porous, POP₇-[COO^-][TBDH⁺], capable of directly capturing and catalytically converting diluted CO₂. This material exhibits a high specific surface area and abundant basic sites, enabling effective concentration and activation CO₂ molecules. Furthermore, it acts as a heterogeneous catalyst that directs the reaction pathway toward the formation of high-value target products. Experimental results demonstrate that the catalytic system efficiently converts CO₂ into the target product with excellent recyclability. This work underscores the dual functionality of ion-paired porous catalysts in the targeted conversion of diluted CO₂-integrating capture-enrichment with catalytic regulation. Given the distinct interactions between CO₂ and different catalytic materials, this study provides a new material platform for integrated capture-catalysis platforms, paving the way for broadening the product scope of CO₂ valorization.