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

Abstract

Research progress on directly converting CO ₂ into heavy hydrocarbons via heterogeneous catalysis is summarized and discussed.

Abstract

As one of the most effective methods, CO ₂ hydrogenation through heterogeneous catalysis is a promising means to mitigating the detrimental effects of anthropogenic CO ₂ that also accomplishes the effective recycling of carbon element. Considering the inertness of the CO ₂ 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 CO ₂ hydrogenation to useful C ₂₊ 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 CO ₂ utilization. This review will focus on the recent developments in the highly selective formation of C ₂₊ 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.