Recent Advances and Challenges in Efficient Selective Photocatalytic CO2 Methanation

Solar-driven carbon dioxide (CO₂) methanation holds significant research value in the context of carbon emission reduction and energy crisis. However, this eight-electron catalytic reaction presents substantial challenges in catalytic activity and selectivity. In this regard, researchers have conducted extensive exploration and achieved significant developments. This review provides an overview of the recent advances and challenges in efficient selective photocatalytic CO₂ methanation. It begins by discussing the fundamental principles and challenges in detail, analyzing strategies for improving the efficiency of photocatalytic CO₂ conversion to CH₄ comprehensively. Subsequently, it outlines the recent applications and advanced characterization methods for photocatalytic CO₂ methanation. Finally, this review highlights the prospects and opportunities in this area, aiming to inspire CO₂ conversion into high-value CH₄ and shed light on the research of catalytic mechanisms.