Recent progress in photo-thermal synergistic catalysis for methane dry reforming

Methane dry reforming (DRM) is a promising approach to convert two greenhouse gases, CO2 and CH4, into industrial value syngas (H2 and CO). However, traditional photocatalytic and thermal catalytic DRM face problems of low yield and high energy consumption. Recently, new photo-thermal synergistic catalytic DRM methods have been developed, which greatly enhance catalytic activity and stability while reducing energy consumption. In this review, the photo-thermal synergistic catalytic DRM process is divided into two groups based on the role played by light and heat energy: thermal assisted photocatalytic DRM and light-driven thermocatalytic DRM. Then, the catalytic mechanisms and catalyst development of two types of photo-thermal synergistic catalytic DRM process are elaborated, aiming to improve catalytic activity, stability, and selectivity from the perspectives of catalytic methods and catalyst design. Finally, the future challenges and opportunities for the development of photo-thermal synergistic catalytic DRM are proposed.