From Solar Energy to Fuels: Recent Advances in Light-Driven C1 Chemistry

Catalytic C-1 chemistry based on the activation/conversion of synthesis gas (CO+H-2), methane, carbon dioxide, and methanol offers great potential for the sustainable development of hydrocarbon fuels to replace oil, coal, and natural gas. Traditional thermal catalytic processes used for C-1 transformations require high temperatures and pressures, thereby carrying a significant carbon footprint. In comparison, solar-driven C-1 catalysis offers a greener and more sustainable pathway for manufacturing fuels and other commodity chemicals, although conversion efficiencies are currently too low to justify industry investment. In this Review, we highlight recent advances and milestones in light-driven C-1 chemistry, including solar Fischer-Tropsch synthesis, the water-gas-shift reaction, CO2 hydrogenation, as well as methane and methanol conversion reactions. Particular emphasis is placed on the rational design of catalysts, structure-reactivity relationships, as well as reaction mechanisms. Strategies for scaling up solar-driven C-1 processes are also discussed.