Traditional gas-phase heterogeneous catalysis, reliant on fossil-fuel-derived heat and associated with a significant carbon footprint, is on the cusp of a transformative shift toward more sustainable alternatives. In the recent article “The Changing Face of Heterogeneous Catalysis”, Geoff provides a systematic review of the field, from its inception to future prospects in gas-phase heterogeneous photocatalysis.
The article highlights key developments in light-assisted catalysis, exploring the relationships between heat- and light-assisted processes. Photochemistry-driven approaches, as emphasized by Geoff, offer a more environmentally benign alternative to traditional thermochemical methods, particularly in the chemicals and fuels sectors. This energy transition opens new avenues for sustainable gas-phase feedstock-to-chemical conversions, driven by light.
With over a decade of progress in both experimental and computational domains, the focus should be increasingly shifting toward the opto-chemical engineering of photocatalysts and photoreactors. Geoff outlines ten critical recommendations aimed at advancing the technology readiness of gas-phase heterogeneous catalysis. See full story at Matter.