Metal−Organic Frameworks for Photoreduction of CO₂

The reduction of CO2 catalyzed by photocatalysts is one of the most desirable research topics since it not only reduces the abundant amount of CO2 emission negatively affecting the natural greenhouse phenomenon but also produces more valuable chemical feedstocks. Nevertheless, due to the uphill reaction mechanism, photoreduction of CO2 requires specific photocatalysts that can overcome the thermodynamic and activation barriers of this reaction. Therefore, this topic, albeit important, remains challenging. One of the emerging materials used for the photoreduction of CO2 is metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) which have been recently received considerable attention for many energy applications. In this chapter, a basic understanding of the CO2 photoreduction, requirements of designed photocatalysts, structural features of MOFs, and recent advancements of using MOF photocatalysts for the photoreduction of CO2 are comprehensively discussed and surveyed. These fundamental aspects of the photochemical conversion of CO2 along with the uses of MOFs including pros and cons for this purpose cast light on the understanding of future designs for photocatalytic systems that enhance the CO2 photoreduction as well as bring this application from laboratory to pilot, even industrial level.