Recent advances in direct catalytic hydrogenation of carbon dioxide to valuable C2+ hydrocarbons

Abstract

As one of the most effective methods, CO₂ hydrogenation through heterogeneous catalysis is a promising means to mitigating the detrimental effects of anthropogenic CO₂ that also accomplishes the effective recycling of carbon element. Considering the inertness of the CO₂ molecule as well as the subsequent low chain propagation activity, the products are usually small molecules such as methane, methanol and formic acid. Furthermore, the imprecise regulation of C–C coupling further hinders the acquisition of target products. These problems make CO₂ hydrogenation to useful C₂₊ hydrocarbons more challenging. Therefore, the rational design and fabrication of highly efficient and selective catalysts, including promoter-modified single metal catalysts, composite catalysts and bimetallic catalysts, is an inevitable process to upgrade the end products of CO₂ utilization. This review will focus on the recent developments in the highly selective formation of C₂₊ hydrocarbons, especially the utilization of composite catalysts or multi-functional catalysts, which indicate the great potential derived from the synergistic effect of multi-active sites.