Nanostructured Materials for Photothermal Carbon Dioxide Hydrogenation: Regulating Solar Utilization and Catalytic Performance.

Converting carbon dioxide (CO) into value-added fuels or chemicals through photothermal catalytic CO hydrogenation is a promising approach to alleviate the energy shortage and global warming. Understanding the nanostructured material strategies in the photothermal catalytic CO hydrogenation process is vital for designing photothermal devices and catalysts and maximizing the photothermal CO hydrogenation performance. In this Perspective, we first describe several essential nanomaterial design concepts to enhance sunlight absorption and utilization in photothermal CO hydrogenation. Subsequently, we review the latest progress in photothermal CO hydrogenation into C (e.g., CO, CH, and CHOH) and multicarbon hydrocarbon (C) products. Finally, the relevant challenges and opportunities in this exciting research realm are discussed. This perspective provides a comprehensive understanding for the light-heat synergy over nanomaterials and instruction for rational photothermal catalyst design for CO utilization.