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Editor’s Choice Articles

Editor’s Choice articles are based on recommendations by the scientific editors of MDPI journals from around the world. Editors select a small number of articles recently published in the journal that they believe will be particularly interesting to readers, or important in the respective research area. The aim is to provide a snapshot of some of the most exciting work published in the various research areas of the journal.

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14 pages, 13402 KB  
Article
Mesostructured CeO2 as Catalyst in the Direct Synthesis of Dimethyl Carbonate
by Diego Alexander Santos Araque, Mohammad Rostamizadeh, Louis Fradette and Serge Kaliaguine
Catalysts 2026, 16(7), 606; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16070606 - 30 Jun 2026
Viewed by 444
Abstract
The direct synthesis of dimethyl carbonate (DMC) from methanol and CO2 requires the use of a dehydrating agent such as 2-cyanopyridine (2-CP) to overcome thermodynamic limitations, alongside controlled catalyst surfaces to limit competing side reactions. In this study, mesostructured CeO2 catalysts [...] Read more.
The direct synthesis of dimethyl carbonate (DMC) from methanol and CO2 requires the use of a dehydrating agent such as 2-cyanopyridine (2-CP) to overcome thermodynamic limitations, alongside controlled catalyst surfaces to limit competing side reactions. In this study, mesostructured CeO2 catalysts were synthesized via a nanocasting approach using SBA-15 as a hard template. The specific impact of the precursor infiltration method and the final thermal treatment on catalytic performance were evaluated. While a one-step precursor infiltration route yielded the most ordered mesostructure after template removal, the final calcination step emerged as the dominant variable governing catalyst activity and selectivity. Textural analysis confirmed that calcination preserved the interconnected nanorod morphology with only a minor decrease in specific surface area. Temperature-programmed desorption (TPD) revealed that the thermal treatment induced a redistribution of surface acid-base sites, specifically increasing the ratio of medium-strength basic to acidic sites. In situ DRIFTS demonstrated that this tailored surface chemistry facilitated CO2 activation, promoted the formation of bidentate carbonates, and favored the monomethyl carbonate (MMC) intermediate formation. Consequently, the calcined CeO2-OS catalyst achieved 74% methanol conversion and 91% DMC yield at 120 °C and 5 MPa, outperforming its uncalcined counterpart by suppressing 2-CP-related secondary reactions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Catalytic Reaction Engineering)
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14 pages, 4359 KB  
Article
Constructing Abundant Cu–ZnO Interfaces via an MOF-on-MOF Precursor for Efficient CO2 Hydrogenation to Methanol
by Yabo Wang, Tao Meng, Dongsen Mao, Qiangsheng Guo and Jun Yu
Catalysts 2026, 16(7), 590; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16070590 - 28 Jun 2026
Viewed by 471
Abstract
In this study, a series of CuaZnbOx catalysts with tunable Cu/Zn molar ratios were fabricated via a MOF-on-MOF precursor strategy for CO2 hydrogenation to methanol. The optimal catalyst, Cu6Zn4Ox, achieved a [...] Read more.
In this study, a series of CuaZnbOx catalysts with tunable Cu/Zn molar ratios were fabricated via a MOF-on-MOF precursor strategy for CO2 hydrogenation to methanol. The optimal catalyst, Cu6Zn4Ox, achieved a CO2 conversion of 14.4%, a methanol selectivity of 81.1%, and a space-time yield of 902.1 gMeOH·kgcat−1·h−1 at 280 °C and 3 MPa with a GHSV of 24,000 mL·gcat−1·h−1. Characterization results revealed that this strategy successfully constructed small-sized Cu and ZnO particles as well as abundant Cu–ZnO interfaces, reaching the optimal structural and compositional state when the Cu/Zn molar ratio is tuned to 6:4. The effective Cu–ZnO interface on Cu6Zn4Ox promotes the CO2 adsorption and H2 dissociation, triggering the formation of carbonate species and resulting in the generation of methanol via a carbonate–formate pathway. This work provides a new insight for the rational design of high-performance CO2 hydrogenation catalysts through precursor interface engineering. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metal–Organic Framework Catalysts: Celebrating a Nobel Prize and Forging Future Developments and Applications)
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45 pages, 5565 KB  
Review
CeO2-Based and Containing Catalysts for CO2 Methanation: A Short Review
by Beatrice Musig, María Aznar, María Elena Gálvez and María Victoria Navarro
Catalysts 2026, 16(7), 589; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16070589 - 27 Jun 2026
Viewed by 468
Abstract
The great impact of carbon dioxide emissions on climate change motivates the development of technologies for carbon capture and utilization. CO2 methanation, which transforms CO2 into methane using renewable hydrogen, is a promising power-to-gas and carbon utilization pathway. Achieving high activity, [...] Read more.
The great impact of carbon dioxide emissions on climate change motivates the development of technologies for carbon capture and utilization. CO2 methanation, which transforms CO2 into methane using renewable hydrogen, is a promising power-to-gas and carbon utilization pathway. Achieving high activity, strong CH4 selectivity, and long-term stability remains challenging, as well as pushes to tailor catalyst properties for the methanation reaction. Cerium oxide is therefore widely explored as a support or promoter due to its redox behaviour and oxygen vacancy chemistry. This review surveys recent literature on catalysts based and containing CeO2 applied for CO2 methanation, covering not only thermal operation but also non-conventional catalytic routes as photothermal, electrocatalytic, and plasma-assisted, with emphasis on how synthesis and role of Ce tune physicochemical properties and catalytic activity. Across reported systems, dispersing active metals (notably Ni and Ru, Cu for electrochemical systems) on ceria frequently yields to high CH4 selectivity. Redox properties of ceria enable optimal metal–support interactions and surface basicity to achieve effective CO2 activation in thermo-catalytic route. Further enhancement of oxygen mobility is associated with doped CeO2 and solid solutions such as Ce-Zr. The high oxygen storage capacity of CeO2 promotes photogenerated charge separation for light-driven performance and optimal plasma–catalyst interactions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 15th Anniversary of Catalysts—Advances in Catalysis for Sustainable Energy)
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11 pages, 2611 KB  
Article
Chiral Phosphoric Acid-Catalyzed Hydrolysis of 4H-Oxazines for Diverse Syntheses
by Peng-Ying Jiang, Ziyin Guo, San Wu, Shao-Hua Xiang, Jun (Joelle) Wang and Bin Tan
Catalysts 2026, 16(6), 556; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16060556 - 16 Jun 2026
Viewed by 536
Abstract
The use of water as a nucleophile in catalytic asymmetric reactions remains a significant challenge, primarily due to its intrinsically low nucleophilicity and small size, which make precise control over both reactivity and stereoselectivity particularly difficult. To address this issue, we developed a [...] Read more.
The use of water as a nucleophile in catalytic asymmetric reactions remains a significant challenge, primarily due to its intrinsically low nucleophilicity and small size, which make precise control over both reactivity and stereoselectivity particularly difficult. To address this issue, we developed a CPA-catalyzed asymmetric hydrolysis system, successfully achieving the efficient and highly stereoselective transformation of 4H-oxazines with water. Under this catalytic system, the initial formation of chiral α-bromo ketones is followed by their in situ conversion through reduction and intramolecular SN2 reactions, directly affording valuable chiral bromo alcohols and chiral oxazolone derivatives in high yields with excellent enantioselectivity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Developments in Asymmetric Organocatalysis)
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18 pages, 1554 KB  
Article
Whole-Cell Biocatalytic Degradation of Heavy Oil Under Low Temperature by a Pseudomonas Strain Isolated from Oil-Contaminated Sites
by Shakir Ali, Isha and Young-Cheol Chang
Catalysts 2026, 16(6), 546; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16060546 - 12 Jun 2026
Viewed by 615
Abstract
The removal of heavy oil under low-temperature conditions is a significant global challenge. This study aimed to assess the long-term whole-cell biocatalytic degradation of heavy oil in water and soil by bacteria isolated from contaminated soil in Muroran, Japan, under cold conditions. Enrichment [...] Read more.
The removal of heavy oil under low-temperature conditions is a significant global challenge. This study aimed to assess the long-term whole-cell biocatalytic degradation of heavy oil in water and soil by bacteria isolated from contaminated soil in Muroran, Japan, under cold conditions. Enrichment cultures using heavy oil as the sole carbon source yielded 15 potent heavy oil-degrading isolates. However, only the C1 strain retained its activity under low-temperature conditions and was identified as Pseudomonas aeruginosa C1 using 16S rDNA sequencing. Gas chromatography analysis revealed that at 30 °C (water medium), strain C1 degraded 57% of heavy oil within 7 days. At 15 °C, the degradation efficiency of C1 declined due to a temperature-dependent metabolic lag phase (1 day); however, at 15 °C, 70% degradation was observed in seven days. In long-term experiments at 5 °C and 10 °C, 35% and 40% degradation were recorded for C1 after 98 days. In artificially contaminated soil at 5 °C, C1 achieved 60% biodegradation. These results demonstrate cold-adapted whole-cell activity against heavy oil and motivate the design of controlled, contained ex situ reactors (e.g., enzyme-based or cell-free systems) for safe remediation in cold climates. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biocatalysts in Biodegradation and Bioremediation)
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15 pages, 1077 KB  
Article
The Structure–Property Relationship in a Zirconia-Grafted Zeolite Beta and Its Catalytic Performance for the Reaction of Ethanol–Acetaldehyde into 1,3-Butadiene
by Yongyue Bai, Mingguan Xie, Huili Yu, Langyou Wen, Hui Yuan, Yongrui Wang, Youhao Xu and Xingtian Shu
Catalysts 2026, 16(6), 542; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16060542 - 11 Jun 2026
Viewed by 465
Abstract
An efficient catalyst for the reaction of ethanol–acetaldehyde into 1,3-butadiene (EATB) is prepared through the grafting of zirconia into a zeolite Beta lattice. The grafting is achieved through the dealumination of a zeolite framework by acid treatment followed by zirconia impregnation, leading to [...] Read more.
An efficient catalyst for the reaction of ethanol–acetaldehyde into 1,3-butadiene (EATB) is prepared through the grafting of zirconia into a zeolite Beta lattice. The grafting is achieved through the dealumination of a zeolite framework by acid treatment followed by zirconia impregnation, leading to the substitution of aluminum in the zeolite framework by zirconia. The catalyst with zirconia grafted into the zeolite framework promotes desirable catalyst properties like high zirconium dispersion, stability, and the close proximity of Lewis acid, Bronsted acid, and medium basic sites. The phase, the coordination of zirconia, the location of the active center and the cooperative synergism were elucidated through various characterization techniques, including X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, N2 adsorption, UV–vis spectroscopy, XPS, 29Si MAS NMR, NH3-TPD, Py-IR, CO-IR and CO2-TPD. The catalytic results show that a suitable phase and content of zirconia were needed to improve the ethanol–acetaldehyde conversion, butadiene selectivity and catalyst stability. Among the catalysts, m+t-ZrOx-Beta-H2O-9020 (m = monoclinic, t = tetragonal ZrO2 phase) achieved the best butadiene selectivity of 82–73% at the conversion of 100–66%, run over 200 h. The results allow us to propose a Lewis acid–medium basic pairing for the Si–O–Zr–O–Si group, where the adjacent Si-OH is the active center for reactions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue State of the Art and Future Challenges in Zeolite Catalysts)
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17 pages, 11765 KB  
Article
Enhanced Plasma-Catalytic Oxidation of Toluene over Spinel Oxide-Mesoporous SiO2 Composites
by Shaohua Chai, Minke Huang, Shuangde Li, Wenbo Zhang, Baikang Zhu and Yunfa Chen
Catalysts 2026, 16(6), 528; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16060528 - 7 Jun 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 498
Abstract
Plasma-catalytic oxidation is a promising approach for the abatement of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), yet its efficiency is often limited by the ineffective utilization of plasma-generated reactive oxygen species and incomplete oxidation pathways. In this work, a composite catalyst was constructed by integrating [...] Read more.
Plasma-catalytic oxidation is a promising approach for the abatement of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), yet its efficiency is often limited by the ineffective utilization of plasma-generated reactive oxygen species and incomplete oxidation pathways. In this work, a composite catalyst was constructed by integrating spinel-type NiCo2O4 with three-dimensional cubic mesoporous KIT-6 to couple efficient mass transfer with redox-active surface functionality for plasma-catalytic degradation of toluene. The performance of NiCo/KIT-6 was systematically evaluated in a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) reactor and compared with Ni/KIT-6, Co/KIT-6, and NTP-only systems. XPS, O2-TPD, H2-TPR, and apparent dielectric measurements were employed to elucidate catalyst properties relevant to plasma–surface interactions. NiCo/KIT-6 exhibits superior overall performance in terms of toluene conversion, COx selectivity, and CO2 selectivity over a wide range of specific input energies. This enhancement is closely associated with the integrated regulation of surface redox properties, oxygen activation capability, and apparent dielectric response by the NiCo2O4/KIT-6 composite structure, which may promote reactive oxygen utilization and facilitates effective plasma–surface redox processes. These results provide insights into the rational design of composite catalysts for plasma-assisted oxidation of aromatic VOCs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Catalysis)
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21 pages, 3868 KB  
Review
Graphitic Carbon Nitride (g-C3N4)-Based Photocatalysts: Fundamentals, Rational Optimization, Energy and Environmental Applications, and Future Perspectives
by Yuyang Zu, Keda Wang and Jing Yu
Catalysts 2026, 16(6), 526; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16060526 - 6 Jun 2026
Viewed by 702
Abstract
To address the dual dilemmas of energy shortage and environmental pollution caused by excessive consumption of fossil fuels, semiconductor photocatalysis has been regarded as a promising sustainable technical route. As a novel metal-free polymeric semiconductor, graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) [...] Read more.
To address the dual dilemmas of energy shortage and environmental pollution caused by excessive consumption of fossil fuels, semiconductor photocatalysis has been regarded as a promising sustainable technical route. As a novel metal-free polymeric semiconductor, graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) has become a benchmark material in photocatalysis due to its suitable visible light response, excellent band structure, high stability, and low-cost raw materials. This review systematically elaborates the structural characteristics, photocatalytic mechanism and mainstream synthetic methods of g-C3N4, summarizes the performance optimization strategies, sorts out its application progress in environmental remediation and energy conversion, analyzes the core bottlenecks of current research and prospects the future directions, providing a systematic reference for the fundamental research and industrial application of g-C3N4-based photocatalysts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Photocatalysis)
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35 pages, 4011 KB  
Review
Conductive Materials as Promoters of Direct Interspecies Electron Transfer in Biocatalytic Anaerobic Digestion: A Review
by Agnieszka A. Pilarska
Catalysts 2026, 16(6), 502; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16060502 - 31 May 2026
Viewed by 994
Abstract
This review presents a mechanistically focused overview of the role of conductive materials in promoting direct interspecies electron transfer (DIET) during anaerobic digestion. A central interpretative issue addressed in this review is whether the improved process performance observed after material addition reflects enhanced [...] Read more.
This review presents a mechanistically focused overview of the role of conductive materials in promoting direct interspecies electron transfer (DIET) during anaerobic digestion. A central interpretative issue addressed in this review is whether the improved process performance observed after material addition reflects enhanced DIET or overlapping physicochemical and biological effects. The review systematises the current state of knowledge on the relationships between material properties, the structure of anaerobic consortia, process response, and the strength of evidence supporting DIET involvement. It discusses indirect and direct electron transfer and the criteria used to interpret the process, microbiological, electrochemical, structural, and molecular data. It also addresses functional interactions at the material–microorganism interface and non-DIET pathways of process improvement, including biomass immobilisation, inhibitor adsorption, buffering, micronutrient effects, and biofilm reorganisation. Conductive materials are also systematised into carbon-based, iron-based, composite and engineered, and organic conductive groups, with their roles related to process limitations, practical constraints, and their applicability in reactor-oriented systems. The distinctive contribution of this review lies in moving beyond simple cataloguing of materials and technological effects towards a framework for mechanistic evaluation, evidence grading, and process translation in conductive-material-assisted anaerobic digestion. Full article
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19 pages, 2914 KB  
Article
Chlorine-Doped Co3O4 Accelerates Interfacial Charge Transfer for Efficient Peroxymonosulfate Activation: Radical-Dominated Bisphenol A Degradation
by Jing Deng, Zhuoyi Pan, Wutao Chen, Kaile Li, Jie Hu and Binbin Shao
Catalysts 2026, 16(5), 483; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16050483 - 21 May 2026
Viewed by 517
Abstract
Cobalt oxide (Co3O4), a transition metal oxide with a cubic spinel structure, shows high potential in peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activation, while its catalytic efficiency is often limited by sluggish interfacial charge transfer. In this study, a chlorine-doped Co3O [...] Read more.
Cobalt oxide (Co3O4), a transition metal oxide with a cubic spinel structure, shows high potential in peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activation, while its catalytic efficiency is often limited by sluggish interfacial charge transfer. In this study, a chlorine-doped Co3O4 (Cl-Co3O4) was synthesized via a hydrothermal method for the degradation of bisphenol A (BPA) through PMS activation. Systematic characterizations and electrochemical tests demonstrated that chlorine doping could effectively modulate the surface electronic structure of the catalyst, significantly reducing the interfacial charge transfer resistance. Degradation performance evaluations revealed that, compared to pristine Co3O4, Cl-Co3O4 exhibited a significantly enhanced BPA degradation, achieving near-complete removal of BPA within 15 min under neutral to weakly alkaline conditions. The optimal operational parameters were determined as catalyst dosage of 0.20 g/L, PMS concentration of 0.10 mM and initial pH of 7.0–9.0, with the pseudo-first-order rate constant reaching 0.37 min−1. High-concentration NO3− showed weak inhibition, while Cl− showed moderate inhibition; 50 mM HCO3− drastically reduced the rate constant to 0.05 min−1 and almost completely suppressed the reaction. Sulfate (SO4•−) and superoxide (O2•−) radicals were the primary reactive species in this system, explicitly excluding the role of the non-radical electron transfer pathway. Furthermore, three plausible BPA degradation pathways involving C-C bond cleavage, hydroxylation and C-O bond breakage were proposed with 19 intermediates identified. Ecotoxicological assessments based on ECOSAR verified that both acute and chronic toxicity of the intermediates to fish, daphnid and green algae decreased gradually, and the final small-molecule products exhibited significantly lower toxicity than the parent BPA. This study provides a novel strategy for enhancing the PMS activation performance of cobalt-based catalysts by modulating their electronic structures via halogen doping. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Functional Materials for Catalytic Degradation of Emerging Contaminants)
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20 pages, 3005 KB  
Article
Mechanistic Insights into the Formation of Hydrogen Cyanide on Cu-SSZ-13 Zeolites During Ammonia-Assisted Selective Catalytic Reduction in the Presence of Formaldehyde: A Perspective from Ab Initio Energetic Span Modelling
by Shengming Tang, Ning Lu, Peirong Chen and Abhishek Khetan
Catalysts 2026, 16(5), 484; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16050484 - 21 May 2026
Viewed by 616
Abstract
The emission of hydrogen cyanide (HCN) from formaldehyde (CH2O) during ammonia-assisted selective catalytic reduction (NH3-SCR) remains a critical challenge for aftertreatment of bio-hybrid fuel combustion exhaust. The mechanistic details of HCN formation are still poorly understood, especially on widely [...] Read more.
The emission of hydrogen cyanide (HCN) from formaldehyde (CH2O) during ammonia-assisted selective catalytic reduction (NH3-SCR) remains a critical challenge for aftertreatment of bio-hybrid fuel combustion exhaust. The mechanistic details of HCN formation are still poorly understood, especially on widely deployed commercial catalysts like Cu-SSZ-13. In this work, we employed density functional theory calculations in combination with the Energetic Span Model to elucidate HCN formation pathways from CH2O in the presence of NO2 and H2O over Cu-SSZ-13. The results revealed the HCN formation pathway with intermediate methylene imine as the dominant one under typical reaction conditions. These findings resonate very well with reports of hexamethylenetetramine (HMT) formation during NH3-SCR with CH2O, for which methylene imine is a critical intermediate. Turnover frequency (TOF) estimations highlighted the strong influence of NO2 and H2O: higher NO2 concentrations promoted CO selectivity and suppressed HCN by oxidizing CH2O to HCOOH, while lower H2O enhanced HCN formation. These findings establish a detailed mechanistic framework for HCN emission on Cu-SSZ-13 and suggest that controlling NO2/NOx ratios and water content can mitigate HCN formation during NH3-SCR. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Catalytic Technologies for NOx Abatement and Environmental Sustainability)
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30 pages, 15159 KB  
Article
Experimental Study on the Influence of Metal Oxide Catalyst Performance in Sulfur Compounds Removal from Natural Gas
by Samuel Antwi, William Holmes, Dongmei Cao, Dhan Fortela, Tolga Karsili, Emmanuel Revellame, August Gallo, Mark Zappi and Rafael Hernandez
Catalysts 2026, 16(5), 473; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16050473 - 19 May 2026
Viewed by 615
Abstract
The removal of sulfur compounds such as ethyl mercaptan from natural gas remains a critical challenge due to their detrimental effects on downstream processes, catalyst poisoning, and environmental emissions. In this study, a series of halloysite-supported transition metal oxide catalysts was synthesized and [...] Read more.
The removal of sulfur compounds such as ethyl mercaptan from natural gas remains a critical challenge due to their detrimental effects on downstream processes, catalyst poisoning, and environmental emissions. In this study, a series of halloysite-supported transition metal oxide catalysts was synthesized and evaluated for the removal of sulfur compounds from natural gas at 25 °C, 200 psi, and 36 mL/min, using 0.5 g of the catalyst. The nanotubular structure and dual surface chemistry of halloysite promote enhanced metal dispersion and improved mass transfer. Single-metal (manganese, copper, zinc, and nickel) catalysts were developed and tested, after which a multi-metal oxide (base) catalyst comprising a composite of the single metals (Zn-Cu-Mn-Ni) was developed as a base catalyst to combine adsorption-active and redox-active functionalities, and its performance was further enhanced by the addition of palladium as promoter. A combination of analytical techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy (FTIR), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), provided evidence that highly dispersed metal oxide phases were formed and the halloysite structure was preserved. XPS data showed the presence of oxidation states of metals that were active (Zn2+, Cu2+, Ni2+, Mn3+/Mn4+ and Pd2+), an indication of a redox-active surface for sulfur interaction. Results from the breakthrough experiments showed that the base catalyst significantly improved sulfur removal compared to single-metal catalysts, while the Pd-promoted catalyst exhibited the highest performance, with a breakthrough time of 630 min. Palladium was incorporated at low loading as a promoter, enhancing adsorption performance while maintaining a favorable balance between efficiency and material cost. This enhancement is attributed to synergistic interactions between adsorption-active sites and redox-active species, as well as improved electron transfer facilitated by palladium. The results demonstrate that rational design of multi-metal oxide catalysts supported on naturally occurring halloysite provides an effective and scalable approach for sulfur removal from natural gas, with strong potential for industrial applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Designing Catalytic Desulfurization Processes to Prepare Clean Fuels, 3rd Edition)
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8 pages, 4170 KB  
Article
Porous Ru-Doped Double Perovskite Oxide as a High-Performance Electrocatalyst for the Oxygen Evolution Reaction
by Junbo Wang, Zhijiao Wang, Qi Tang, Yin Zhang, Xiaoyu Deng, Yang Wang and Kaiteng Wang
Catalysts 2026, 16(5), 461; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16050461 - 15 May 2026
Viewed by 472
Abstract
The oxygen evolution reaction (OER) constitutes a critical bottleneck in water electrolysis for hydrogen production owing to its sluggish four-electron transfer kinetics. Double perovskite oxides (A2BB’O6) have emerged as exceptional OER catalysts distinguished by their stable crystal frameworks and [...] Read more.
The oxygen evolution reaction (OER) constitutes a critical bottleneck in water electrolysis for hydrogen production owing to its sluggish four-electron transfer kinetics. Double perovskite oxides (A2BB’O6) have emerged as exceptional OER catalysts distinguished by their stable crystal frameworks and flexible active-site tunability. Crucially, the alternating ordering of B and B’ cations at octahedral positions creates a unique lattice enriched with oxygen vacancies. Leveraging these intrinsic structural advantages, we synthesized a porous Ru-doped double perovskite oxide Sr2Fe1.9Ru0.1O6-δ (SFRO-850) featuring increased oxygen vacancies via a sol–gel route. Electrochemical measurement shows that SFRO-850 exhibits outstanding OER activity with a low overpotential of 326 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm−2 and a Tafel slope of 67.48 mV dec−1, superior to the undoped material and its counterparts. The results validate the efficacy of the double perovskite framework as a superior platform for hosting catalytically active sites, offering a viable pathway toward high-performance, low-noble-metal-content OER catalysts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Electrocatalysis)
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10 pages, 1082 KB  
Article
Exploring β-Myrcene Incorporation in Propene Copolymerization Using Half-Titanocene Catalysts
by Kantarattana Paramanurak, Adriano Vignali, Benedetta Palucci, Fabio Bertini, Kotohiro Nomura and Simona Losio
Catalysts 2026, 16(5), 453; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16050453 - 13 May 2026
Viewed by 774
Abstract
The development of polyolefin from bio-renewables has been considered an important subject in terms of circular economy. In this study, exploring the possibility of β-myrcene (MY) incorporation in propene copolymerization has been studied in the presence of various catalysts: phenoxide-modified half-titanocene, Cp’TiCl2 [...] Read more.
The development of polyolefin from bio-renewables has been considered an important subject in terms of circular economy. In this study, exploring the possibility of β-myrcene (MY) incorporation in propene copolymerization has been studied in the presence of various catalysts: phenoxide-modified half-titanocene, Cp’TiCl2(O-2,6-iPr2-4-C6H3) [Cp’ = Cp* (C5Me5), Me3SiC5H4], and ketimide-modified half-titanicene, Cp’TiCl2(N=CtBu2) (Cp’ = Cp*, Cp). Among the complexes tested, the permethylated Cp* catalysts, Cp*TiCl2(O-2,6-iPr2-4-C6H3) and Cp*TiCl2(N=CtBu2), exhibited moderate catalytic activities in the copolymerizations, affording the copolymers up to 3 mol% MY incorporation. The other catalysts showed negligible activity in the attempted copolymerizations. The resulting copolymers were amorphous and possessed sole glass transition temperatures (Tg), suggesting uniform compositions; the Tg values decreased with increasing comonomer (MY) content, reaching values as low as −17 °C. The results introduce valuable insights into the structure–property relationships of myrcene-based copolymers and pave the way for the future designs of tailored molecular catalysts for the synthesis of biobased elastomers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 15th Anniversary of Catalysts: Shaping a Sustainable Future Through Catalysis)
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19 pages, 32444 KB  
Article
Regulating Oxygen Vacancies in Ultrasonic-Assisted Green-Synthesized Copper-Doped δ-MnO2 Catalysts for Boosting Formaldehyde Oxidation
by Xiudan Tao, Xiaohan Yang, Fufen Li, Yuqing He, Chenhui Liu, Zhengjun Li and Nianhua Dan
Catalysts 2026, 16(5), 454; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16050454 - 13 May 2026
Viewed by 314
Abstract
Oxygen vacancies play a crucial role in modulating the chemical and catalytic properties of metal oxide catalysts. Herein, quercetin was used as a green reducing agent to prepare Cu-doped MnO2 (Cu-MnO2) composite catalysts with varying Cu doping levels via an [...] Read more.
Oxygen vacancies play a crucial role in modulating the chemical and catalytic properties of metal oxide catalysts. Herein, quercetin was used as a green reducing agent to prepare Cu-doped MnO2 (Cu-MnO2) composite catalysts with varying Cu doping levels via an ultrasonically assisted strategy. The structure-activity relationships were systematically investigated using XRD, Raman, XPS, H2-TPR, and O2-TPD. Benefiting from optimized surface lattice defects induced by an appropriate Cu doping level, the Cu-MnO2-2 sample, which exhibited the highest oxygen vacancy concentration, achieved a HCHO removal efficiency of 99.2% for 1 ppm HCHO at room temperature (25 °C) and 50% relative humidity within 30 min. The enrichment of Mn3+, Cu+, and surface-adsorbed oxygen species (Oads) further corroborated the increased oxygen vacancy density, indicating that moderate Cu doping effectively promotes electron transfer and oxygen activation. After five consecutive cycles, the HCHO conversion remained above 96%. Post-cycling characterizations (XRD, FTIR, EDS, and XPS) confirmed the excellent structural and chemical stability of the catalyst, with the Mn3+ proportion and Cu+/Cu2+ ratio well preserved. In situ DRIFTS analysis revealed that surface-adsorbed oxygen and oxygen-vacancy-activated reactive oxygen species (ROS) are key factors in the efficient HCHO oxidation over the green Cu-MnO2-2 catalyst, promoting rapid conversion of intermediates and ultimately generating CO2 and H2O. This study provides a facile, low-cost, and green synthesis strategy for Cu-MnO2 composite catalysts for indoor, room-temperature HCHO abatement, offering new insights into the design of other composite catalyst materials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metal and Non-Metal Doping Modification of Catalysts)
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31 pages, 125713 KB  
Review
Theoretical Insights and Design Strategies of Metal–Nitrogen–Carbon Catalysts for Electrochemical Nitrogen Reduction Reaction
by Jianhui Yi, Zi Wen and Qing Jiang
Catalysts 2026, 16(5), 456; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16050456 - 13 May 2026
Viewed by 1597
Abstract
Electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) is a sustainable and environmentally friendly method for ammonia synthesis, offering a promising alternative to the Haber–Bosch method. Despite its considerable potential, NRR is still plagued by a scarcity of efficient catalysts. Metal–nitrogen–carbon (M–N–C) catalysts exhibit unique advantages [...] Read more.
Electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) is a sustainable and environmentally friendly method for ammonia synthesis, offering a promising alternative to the Haber–Bosch method. Despite its considerable potential, NRR is still plagued by a scarcity of efficient catalysts. Metal–nitrogen–carbon (M–N–C) catalysts exhibit unique advantages in achieving excellent NRR performance. Theoretical calculations are crucial in understanding and guiding the design of M–N–C catalysts. Herein, we summarize the theoretical progress and rational designs of M–N–C catalysts for NRR. The fundamental mechanisms of NRR are introduced, and the activity, selectivity, and stability exhibited by the M–N–C catalysts are analyzed in depth. Additionally, several design strategies for M–N–C catalysts are provided, including adjusting the central metal atoms, regulating the coordinative environments, and applying computational data-driven approaches to optimize the structures of M–N–C catalysts. Finally, a summary and outlook of M–N–C catalysts for NRR are given. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Young Researchers in Electrocatalysis)
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17 pages, 3950 KB  
Article
Modulating Electronic Structure of Carbon Nitride Oligomer Through Benzene-Ring Bridging and Oxygen Doping for Boosting H2O2 Photosynthesis
by Zhaocen Dong, Meng Wang, Yu Zhang, Youtian Wang, Zhijie Wu, Yibo Zhou, Haoxuan Zhang, Meili Guan, Xuezhong Gong and Jianguo Tang
Catalysts 2026, 16(5), 442; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16050442 - 10 May 2026
Viewed by 676
Abstract
Photocatalytic oxygen reduction to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) offers a promising route for sustainable chemical synthesis, yet the efficiency of carbon nitride-based photocatalysts is often limited by narrow light absorption and rapid charge recombination. Low-molecular-weight carbon nitride exhibits a favorable [...] Read more.
Photocatalytic oxygen reduction to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) offers a promising route for sustainable chemical synthesis, yet the efficiency of carbon nitride-based photocatalysts is often limited by narrow light absorption and rapid charge recombination. Low-molecular-weight carbon nitride exhibits a favorable reduction potential but suffers from poor visible-light utilization, while π-conjugation extension and heteroatom doping are effective yet rarely combined within a single oligomeric framework. In this work, we report a low-temperature (400 °C) one-step copolymerization approach employing urea and terephthalonitrile to construct an oxygen-doped, benzene-bridged carbon nitride oligomer (O-B-CNO). Comprehensive characterization confirms the successful integration of both benzene rings and oxygen dopants into the oligomer backbone, with the former enhancing structural stability and the latter introducing active sites. The extended conjugation and oxygen incorporation synergistically modulate the electronic structure, leading to a narrowed bandgap, improved visible-light harvesting, and suppressed charge recombination. As a result, O-B-CNO delivers a photocatalytic H2O2 yield of approximately 3000 μM under visible-light irradiation, a 10-fold enhancement over the pristine oligomer, with optimal activity at neutral pH via the two-electron oxygen reduction pathway. The enhanced performance stems from the complementary functions of the two modifications: benzene rings promote electron delocalization and charge transport, while oxygen dopants serve as selective active centers for oxygen reduction. This work demonstrates a viable molecular engineering strategy for developing efficient carbon nitride photocatalysts for H2O2 production. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanostructured Photocatalysts for Hydrogen Production)
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23 pages, 1042 KB  
Review
Acid-Catalyzed Pretreatment of Lignocellulosic Biomass: Feed-Stock-Dependent Reactivity, Kinetics, and Xylose-Selective Catalytic Performance
by Gyungmin Kim, Ben Nadeau and Hua Song
Catalysts 2026, 16(5), 433; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16050433 - 7 May 2026
Viewed by 1523
Abstract
The transition to renewable carbon resources has positioned lignocellulosic biomass as a key feedstock for sustainable fuel and chemical production; however, its intrinsic recalcitrance limits efficient conversion. Dilute acid pretreatment functions as a homogeneous Brønsted acid catalytic system that selectively depolymerizes hemicellulose and [...] Read more.
The transition to renewable carbon resources has positioned lignocellulosic biomass as a key feedstock for sustainable fuel and chemical production; however, its intrinsic recalcitrance limits efficient conversion. Dilute acid pretreatment functions as a homogeneous Brønsted acid catalytic system that selectively depolymerizes hemicellulose and disrupts lignin–carbohydrate complexes, while competing with consecutive sugar dehydration reactions, thereby enhancing downstream processing. This review presents a feedstock-specific analysis of acid catalyzed biomass deconstruction across agricultural residues, woody biomass, and energy crops, with xylose yield employed as a kinetically and mechanistically relevant descriptor of catalytic performance. By correlating proton activity, reaction severity, diffusion constraints, lignin chemistry, and mineral interference with observed conversion behavior, the work establishes a structure–reactivity–performance framework for biomass dependent hydrolysis. Particular attention is given to competing dehydration and condensation pathways that reduce pentose selectivity and generate fermentation inhibitors. The analysis identifies optimal severity windows for maximizing catalytic efficiency while suppressing degradation reactions and provides guidance for feedstock-tailored pretreatment and next-generation acid catalytic systems and reactor configurations in integrated biorefineries. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Catalysts for Biomass Conversions and Hydrogen Productions)
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25 pages, 2370 KB  
Review
Beyond Cooperative Catalysis: Directly Light-Activated Chiral Phosphoric Acids in Stereoselective Photochemical Transformations
by Margherita Gazzotti, Fabrizio Medici, Laura Raimondi and Sergio Rossi
Catalysts 2026, 16(5), 435; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16050435 - 7 May 2026
Viewed by 533
Abstract
The combination of photochemistry with stereoselective catalysis has emerged as an effective strategy to achieve stereocontrol in light-driven transformations. Chiral phosphoric acids (CPAs) have recently attracted attention in this context due to their ability to activate substrates while providing a defined chiral environment. [...] Read more.
The combination of photochemistry with stereoselective catalysis has emerged as an effective strategy to achieve stereocontrol in light-driven transformations. Chiral phosphoric acids (CPAs) have recently attracted attention in this context due to their ability to activate substrates while providing a defined chiral environment. This minireview highlights recent developments in CPA-enabled asymmetric photochemical transformations, focusing on systems in which CPAs incorporate a chromophore on the chiral backbone or form light-absorbing CPA-substrate complexes that enable photoactivation without the presence of an external photocatalyst. The main catalytic strategies, mechanistic features, and current limitations are discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 15th Anniversary of Catalysts—Recent Advances in Photocatalysis)
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15 pages, 2607 KB  
Article
A Scalable One-Pot Synthesis of a Durable Iridium Nanocatalyst for High-Performance PEM Water Electrolysis
by Chuan Long, Yi An, Bowen Xia, Feifei Fang, Jingjing Wang, Chenyi Shao, Yinglong Yu, Haicheng Xiao and Yanfei Wang
Catalysts 2026, 16(5), 430; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16050430 - 6 May 2026
Viewed by 684
Abstract
Proton exchange membrane water electrolysis (PEMWE) is currently limited by the sluggish kinetics and poor durability of the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). In this work, a structurally uniform IrB160-4 catalyst was synthesized through a simple, scalable one-pot aqueous method. This template-free method [...] Read more.
Proton exchange membrane water electrolysis (PEMWE) is currently limited by the sluggish kinetics and poor durability of the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). In this work, a structurally uniform IrB160-4 catalyst was synthesized through a simple, scalable one-pot aqueous method. This template-free method enables near-quantitative yields and gram-scale preparation, with products rapidly separated via simple filtration. The catalyst consists of uniform, nanoclusters self-assembled from highly crystalline ~3 nm Ir nanoparticles. The optimized catalyst exhibits superior OER activity over commercial Ir-Black. The assembled proton exchange membrane electrolyzer, utilizing a low anodic iridium loading of 0.5 mg cm−2, demonstrates excellent performance (2.0 A cm−2 @ 1.79 V) and high durability (>1500 h). This synthesis strategy provides a feasible method for achieving efficient and stable PEM water electrolysis for hydrogen production. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Surface and Interface Engineering of Catalyst Nanostructures for Electrochemical Energy Conversion)
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19 pages, 7530 KB  
Article
Enhanced Catalytic Performance of Red Mud for Toluene Oxidation via Acid Pretreatment-Induced Structural Modification
by Wenjun Liang, Ruifang Li, Qianyu Tao, Yuxue Zhu, Running Kang and Hongping Fang
Catalysts 2026, 16(5), 425; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16050425 - 4 May 2026
Viewed by 671
Abstract
Red mud (RM), a metal oxide-rich solid waste, was subjected to three different acid treatments to evaluate its catalytic performance in toluene oxidation. The acetic acid-modified red mud (HAC-RM) demonstrated excellent catalytic activity, achieving complete toluene conversion at 450 °C. XRD, XRF, N [...] Read more.
Red mud (RM), a metal oxide-rich solid waste, was subjected to three different acid treatments to evaluate its catalytic performance in toluene oxidation. The acetic acid-modified red mud (HAC-RM) demonstrated excellent catalytic activity, achieving complete toluene conversion at 450 °C. XRD, XRF, N2-BET and SEM results show acetic acid treatment can effectively remove pore-blocking inert components such as Na2O and CaO, thus increased the Fe2O3 content, and significantly enhanced both the specific surface area and pore size of the catalyst. Furthermore, this modification enhanced reducibility and generated additional oxygen vacancies, verified by H2-TPR and O2-TPD, thereby improving the overall catalytic performance. In contrast, oxalic acid treatment under ultraviolet irradiation led to the formation of calcium carbonate via reaction with Ca2+ ions in RM, which resulted in reduced catalytic activity. To further enhance performance, MnO2 was loaded onto the modified HAC-RM via an impregnation method to develop a low-cost and highly active catalyst. Among the prepared samples, 20%MnO2/HAC-RM exhibited the highest catalytic efficiency, achieving 100% toluene conversion at 300 °C. XPS, H2-TPR, and O2-TPD results indicate the synergistic interaction between Fe2O3 and MnO2 facilitated electron transfer and enhanced surface oxygen mobility. Additionally, the catalytic oxidation mechanism of 20% MnO2/HAC-RM was elucidated. A detailed reaction pathway for toluene degradation is proposed by in situ DRIFT, as follows: toluene → benzyl alcohol → benzaldehyde/benzoyl peroxide → benzoate → CO2 and H2O. These findings are expected to contribute to the development of efficient, sustainable, and cost-effective catalysts for volatile organic compound (VOC) abatement. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Heterogeneous Catalysis in China: New Horizons and Recent Advances)
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14 pages, 1905 KB  
Article
Alcoholysis Products by a GH53 Fungal Galactanase
by Marco Zanon, Theo Tonne Hønning Lyholm, Yusuf Theibich, Sara Jonsdottir Glaser and Leila Lo Leggio
Catalysts 2026, 16(5), 421; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16050421 - 3 May 2026
Viewed by 651
Abstract
In this study, the native activity of an arabinogalactan endo-β-1,4-galactanase from Aspergillus niger (AnGal) was evaluated under different reaction conditions, and in the presence of various acceptor molecules during the cleavage of the β-1,4-glycosidic linkage of a chromogenic compound and lupin galactan. A [...] Read more.
In this study, the native activity of an arabinogalactan endo-β-1,4-galactanase from Aspergillus niger (AnGal) was evaluated under different reaction conditions, and in the presence of various acceptor molecules during the cleavage of the β-1,4-glycosidic linkage of a chromogenic compound and lupin galactan. A combination of spectrophotometric assays, mass spectrometry and chromatography techniques provided insights into the reaction mechanism of the enzyme and its use in the synthesis of galactosides and galactooligosaccharide derivatives. In reactions containing 2-nitrophenol galactopyranoside, AnGal promoted transglycosylation, generating longer galactooligosaccharide derivatives of 2-nitrophenol that have not previously been reported for GH53 enzymes. Furthermore, new alcoholysis products have been detected when AnGal acted on lupin galactan in the presence of benzyl alcohol. To the best of our knowledge, we are first to report the synthesis of galactotriose and galactotetraose derivatives formed by endo-β-1,4-galactanase alcoholysis. This work showcases the potential of utilizing galactanases in the synthesis of valuable galactosides and galactooligosaccharides, under mild conditions from sustainable biomass sources. Potential beneficial applications may be found in several industrial fields such as in the preparation of prodrugs and prebiotics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Enzyme Engineering and Application for Industrial Biocatalysis)
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16 pages, 6213 KB  
Article
Co0-Coδ+ Active Pairs Tailored in Co-W-C Catalysts via Reduction–Carburization for Synthesizing Ethanol from CO2 Hydrogenation Under the Promotion of DMF
by Min Luo, Wei Wu and Linfei Xiao
Catalysts 2026, 16(5), 423; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16050423 - 3 May 2026
Viewed by 609
Abstract
Hydrogenation of CO2 to ethanol is regarded as a promising approach for the resource utilization of CO2. Ethanol can be synthesized via the acetate pathway over cobalt-based catalysts, in which the regulation of Co0-Coδ+ is crucial to [...] Read more.
Hydrogenation of CO2 to ethanol is regarded as a promising approach for the resource utilization of CO2. Ethanol can be synthesized via the acetate pathway over cobalt-based catalysts, in which the regulation of Co0-Coδ+ is crucial to increasing the space–time yield of ethanol. In this research, a series of Co-W-C catalysts was prepared via the reduction-carburization method and their catalytic performance was investigated for synthesizing ethanol from CO2 hydrogenation. During the preparation of Co-W-C catalysts, the Co, Co6W6C and WC phases were generated by employing a precursor containing Co, W and citric acid. This process drove the formation of Coδ+ species and the consequent generation of Co0-Coδ+ active pairs. Under the cooperation of Co0-Coδ+ and WC, ethanol was obtained with high selectivity and space–time yield from the CO2 hydrogenation under the promotion of DMF. Over the Co-W-C-1 catalyst prepared by a Co/W molar ratio of 1:1 in the precursor, an ethanol space–time yield of 17.1 mmol·g−1·h−1 with an ethanol selectivity of 99.6% among organic products was obtained. Furthermore, key intermediate species formed during the reaction were identified by in situ Diffuse Reflectance Infrared Fourier Transform Spectroscopy, and a possible reaction pathway was also proposed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Engineering of Nanostructured Catalytic Materials for Selective Hydrogenation Reactions)
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17 pages, 3049 KB  
Review
The Recent Impact of Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents on Asymmetric Organocatalysis
by Maria B. Moura, Elisabete P. Carreiro, Pedro Paiva, Hans-Jürgen Federsel and Anthony J. Burke
Catalysts 2026, 16(5), 413; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16050413 - 2 May 2026
Viewed by 764
Abstract
Over the last 20 years, Deep-Eutectic Solvents (DES) have been making a significant impact in the field of chemistry, with applications in nanotechnology, biomass transformation, electrochemistry pharmaceuticals and a host of other applications that includes catalysis. Considering the importance of chiral organocatalysis for [...] Read more.
Over the last 20 years, Deep-Eutectic Solvents (DES) have been making a significant impact in the field of chemistry, with applications in nanotechnology, biomass transformation, electrochemistry pharmaceuticals and a host of other applications that includes catalysis. Considering the importance of chiral organocatalysis for the selective synthesis of drugs, pharmaceuticals and fragrances, etc. DESs were quickly harnessed as the media for carrying out organocatalytic transformations. In this review, we discuss some of the most important examples from the literature that have made an impact in the field over the last 5 years. A more recent development has been the incorporation of DESs in structured and self-organized gel-like assemblies that are known as EutectoGels. These soft structures offer a more defined and compact environment that can influence stereoselectivity by pre-organizing the reactants in three-dimensional space, and potential control the types of transition states that can be formed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Catalytic Procedures for the Synthesis of Pharmaceutical Active Compounds in Deep Eutectic Solvents)
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36 pages, 2813 KB  
Review
The Use of Titanium Compounds as Supports and Cocatalysts/Additives for Low-Temperature Fuel Cell Catalysts
by Ermete Antolini
Catalysts 2026, 16(5), 416; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16050416 - 2 May 2026
Viewed by 936
Abstract
Among different non-carbon materials, due to their high corrosion resistance and chemical stability, titanium-based compounds, such as TiO2, TiN, TiC and Ti3C2Tx, are potential supports for PEMFC catalysts. In addition to its main function as [...] Read more.
Among different non-carbon materials, due to their high corrosion resistance and chemical stability, titanium-based compounds, such as TiO2, TiN, TiC and Ti3C2Tx, are potential supports for PEMFC catalysts. In addition to its main function as a support, due to its catalytic properties, TiO2 is also used as co-catalyst/additive in the catalyst layer. In this work, the use of titanium compounds as catalyst supports and co-catalysts in the membrane electrode assembly of PEMFCs is overviewed and discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 15th Anniversary of Catalysts: Feature Papers in Electrocatalysis)
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36 pages, 1123 KB  
Review
Advances in Tar Steam Reforming Catalysts: A Review Focusing on Natural Minerals and Ni-Based Catalysts
by Xiaofei Sun, Dongwang Zhang, Rushan Bie and Man Zhang
Catalysts 2026, 16(5), 411; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16050411 - 2 May 2026
Viewed by 1935
Abstract
Biomass gasification technology is a crucial pathway for obtaining clean syngas and achieving efficient utilization of carbon resources. However, tar is one of the main factors restricting the industrialization of biomass gasification technology. Among various solutions, catalytic steam reforming is regarded as the [...] Read more.
Biomass gasification technology is a crucial pathway for obtaining clean syngas and achieving efficient utilization of carbon resources. However, tar is one of the main factors restricting the industrialization of biomass gasification technology. Among various solutions, catalytic steam reforming is regarded as the most promising solution. Currently, natural minerals and Ni-based catalysts have been demonstrated to be effective and economically viable for tar removal, which are widely used in industrial fluidized beds. Therefore, the basic reaction principles of tar steam reforming were briefly introduced. The development of tar steam reforming catalysts, focusing mainly on natural minerals and Ni-based catalysts, have been studied in this review. The catalytic cracking mechanisms of natural minerals such as dolomite and limestone, as well as the steam reforming mechanism of Ni-based catalysts, have been thoroughly summarized. In addition, the active sites of the catalysts, reaction pathways, and the essence of catalyst deactivation are discussed. Based on this, the catalytic effect of these two catalysts for steam reforming of tar in the fluidized bed was summarized. Further, the engineering challenges (such as mass transfer, wear, and continuous regeneration) and the corresponding process optimization measures were comprehensively reviewed, and future perspectives are discussed. Full article
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38 pages, 2992 KB  
Review
Surface Intermediates in Important Catalytic Reactions: Formation, Identification and Reactivity Across Metals, Nanoparticles and Supported Catalysts
by János Kiss, Imre Szenti, Anastasiia Efremova, Imre Kovács, Aranka Deér, András Sápi and Zoltán Kónya
Catalysts 2026, 16(5), 404; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16050404 - 1 May 2026
Viewed by 696
Abstract
The performance and mechanism of heterogeneous catalytic reactions are fundamentally governed by the formation, stability, and reactivity of transient surface intermediates. These species—such as isocyanates, alkyl groups, carboxylates, formates, carbonates, alkoxy and acyl intermediates—often exist at low concentrations and with short lifetimes, making [...] Read more.
The performance and mechanism of heterogeneous catalytic reactions are fundamentally governed by the formation, stability, and reactivity of transient surface intermediates. These species—such as isocyanates, alkyl groups, carboxylates, formates, carbonates, alkoxy and acyl intermediates—often exist at low concentrations and with short lifetimes, making their identification challenging. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the formation, spectroscopic identification, and thermal behavior of these intermediates on metal single crystals, metal nanoparticles, and oxide-supported catalysts. Emphasis is placed on key reactions including CO and NO oxidation–reduction, CO and CO2 hydrogenation, Fischer–Tropsch-related pathways, and reforming of ethanol. Advanced surface-sensitive techniques (TDS, XPS, UPS, IR, HREELS) are highlighted for their role in elucidating intermediate structures and reaction pathways. The isocyanate surface complex is an existing intermediate in NO reduction with CO, and NCO is responsible for NH3 formation. Alkyl groups can be prepared from thermal- or photo-induced dissociation of alkyl halogenide. Oxygen-containing intermediates relevant to CO2 hydrogenation are addressed, with particular attention to formate, carboxylate, and related species. M/CeO2 (M = Pt, Rh, Ir, Ru) seems to be the best catalyst for hydrogen production from ethanol reforming. The nature of support may affect hydrogen production. The review also discusses how metal–support interactions, particle size, and surface morphology influence intermediate stability and catalytic selectivity. Overall, the work provides a comprehensive framework for understanding how transient surface complexes control technologically important catalytic transformations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 15th Anniversary of Catalysts: Catalytic Materials and Processes for H2 and E-Fuel Production from Wastes)
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18 pages, 4963 KB  
Article
Furan-Based CS@CdS Heterojunction Achieves Fast Charge Separation to Boost Photocatalytic Generation of H2O2 in Pure Water
by Yan He, Ziyi Li, Ebtihal Abograin, Yuntian Wan, Yan Yan, Xu Yan, Yongsheng Yan and Wei Peng
Catalysts 2026, 16(5), 403; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16050403 - 30 Apr 2026
Viewed by 440
Abstract
The efficient photocatalytic generation of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) from pure water remains a formidable challenge, primarily due to the rapid recombination of photogenerated electron–hole pairs and insufficient redox potentials inherent in single-component photocatalysts. To address these issues, we designed [...] Read more.
The efficient photocatalytic generation of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) from pure water remains a formidable challenge, primarily due to the rapid recombination of photogenerated electron–hole pairs and insufficient redox potentials inherent in single-component photocatalysts. To address these issues, we designed and synthesized a heterojunction material comprising cadmium sulfide nanoparticles loaded on carbon spheres (CS@CdS). Under conditions utilizing pure water and ambient air, the CS@CdS composite achieves an H2O2 production rate of 1305 μmol·g−1·h−1, which is 3.1 and 3.6 times higher than that of pure CdS and CS, respectively, without the need for any sacrificial agents or external oxygen supply. Systematic characterization reveals that CS and CdS form a tightly coupled electronic interface, which significantly accelerates charge carrier separation and effectively prolongs the lifetime of photogenerated carriers, thereby boosting photocatalytic performance. Furthermore, the CS component extends the visible-light absorption range of the composite and functions as an electron acceptor to suppress charge recombination, collectively endowing CS@CdS with enhanced photocatalytic activity. Mechanistic studies indicate that H2O2 production over CS@CdS proceeds predominantly via a two-step single-electron oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) pathway. This work offers a viable strategy for constructing CS-based heterojunction photocatalysts for efficient H2O2 synthesis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Catalytic Carbon Emission Reduction and Conversion in the Environment)
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17 pages, 10353 KB  
Article
Synergistic Effect of Pt/Co Dual Clusters on Covalent Organic Frameworks for Highly Selective Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction to Ethylene
by Boyu Chen, Yuanzhe Li, Liantao Yang, Biao Zhang and Hao Wang
Catalysts 2026, 16(5), 401; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16050401 - 30 Apr 2026
Viewed by 536
Abstract
To address the critical challenges of sluggish C-C coupling kinetics and the propensity for over hydrogenation to ethane (C2H6) in the photocatalytic CO2 reduction to ethylene (C2H4), this study designed a synergistic bimetallic Pt/Co [...] Read more.
To address the critical challenges of sluggish C-C coupling kinetics and the propensity for over hydrogenation to ethane (C2H6) in the photocatalytic CO2 reduction to ethylene (C2H4), this study designed a synergistic bimetallic Pt/Co cluster catalyst supported on a covalent organic framework (COF), designated as PtCo-TpBD COF. This catalyst is designed to modulate the adsorption of key intermediates via Co clusters to suppress over-hydrogenation, while leveraging Pt clusters to promote C-C coupling, thereby achieving highly selective C2H4 production. Through a series of structural characterization analyses, it was confirmed that Pt/Co clusters were successfully confined within the pores of the COF, and significant electronic interactions were observed. In situ infrared spectroscopy revealed that the introduction of Co clusters effectively weakens the adsorption strength of the CO* intermediate, while the incorporation of Pt clusters promotes C-C coupling. In visible-light-driven gas-phase CO2 reduction, this catalyst delivered exceptional activity, reaching an C2H4 formation rate of 7.54 μmol g−1 h−1 and an C2H4 selectivity of 90.1%, along with remarkable inhibition of deep hydrogenation byproducts including C2H6. This study not only provides a successful example for constructing efficient bifunctional photocatalysts to achieve highly selective conversion of CO2 to C2H4, but also highlights the great potential of COFs as advanced platforms for integrating multifunctional metal clusters and precisely tuning catalytic selectivity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Photo/Electrocatalysis: Advancing Sustainable Energy and Environmental Health)
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17 pages, 2258 KB  
Article
Enhanced Performance of Photocatalytic Water Splitting on B-Doped g-C3N4
by Liyang Peng, Qinjun Chen, Pengcheng Su, Jinhui Zhang and Shibiao Wu
Catalysts 2026, 16(5), 396; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16050396 - 29 Apr 2026
Viewed by 572
Abstract
Graphitic carbon nitride (CN) is a promising photocatalytic material, but its practical application is limited by small specific surface area, narrow light absorption range, and high photogenerated carrier recombination rate. To address these issues, this study synthesized boron-doped carbon nitride (BCN) and sulfuric [...] Read more.
Graphitic carbon nitride (CN) is a promising photocatalytic material, but its practical application is limited by small specific surface area, narrow light absorption range, and high photogenerated carrier recombination rate. To address these issues, this study synthesized boron-doped carbon nitride (BCN) and sulfuric acid-exfoliated boron-doped carbon nitride (BCND). X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) results confirmed that boron was successfully doped into the CN skeleton via B-N bonds. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and N2 adsorption–desorption (BET) characterizations showed that acid exfoliation significantly increased the specific surface area of BCND to 68.80 m2·g−1, much higher than that of CN (9.54 m2·g−1) and BCN (15.98 m2·g−1). UV–visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV-Vis DRS) analysis revealed that BCND had the narrowest bandgap (2.59 eV) among the three materials, which enhanced its visible-light absorption efficiency. Photoelectrochemical tests demonstrated that BCND exhibited the smallest charge transfer resistance and the highest transient photocurrent density (eight times that of CN), indicating efficient separation of photogenerated electron–hole pairs. Photocatalytic water splitting experiments showed that BCND achieved the highest Hydrogen production rate of 792.34 μmol·g−1·h−1, which was about 4 times that of CN (158.41 μmol·g−1·h−1) and 1.36 times that of 2.5% BCN (584.30 μmol·g−1·h−1). Free-radical trapping experiments indicated that hydroxyl radicals (·OH) played a crucial promotional role in Hydrogen production, while superoxide anions (·O2−) exerted an inhibitory effect. The enhanced performance of BCND was attributed to the synergistic effects of boron doping (narrowing bandgap) and acid exfoliation (increasing specific surface area). A possible photocatalytic Hydrogen production mechanism was proposed based on the experimental results. This study provides a feasible strategy for the structural modification and performance optimization of g-C3N4-based photocatalysts for water splitting. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Photocatalytic Technologies for Sustainable Environmental Treatment)
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15 pages, 2462 KB  
Article
Electrochemical Study of Rhenium Cathodes on Aqueous Methanol, Simulating Non-Purified Water
by José Guadalupe Rivera, Juan Manuel Olivares-Ramírez, Raúl García-García and German Orozco
Catalysts 2026, 16(5), 394; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16050394 - 29 Apr 2026
Viewed by 472
Abstract
The electrochemical behavior of metallic rhenium was investigated using voltammetry and ex situ X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) in aqueous acidic methanol solutions. Capacitance–potential analysis revealed that the double-layer current is governed by an adsorption–desorption surface process involving oxygen and sulfate species, as confirmed [...] Read more.
The electrochemical behavior of metallic rhenium was investigated using voltammetry and ex situ X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) in aqueous acidic methanol solutions. Capacitance–potential analysis revealed that the double-layer current is governed by an adsorption–desorption surface process involving oxygen and sulfate species, as confirmed by XPS. The hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) proceeds via a Volmer–Heyrovsky mechanism, with hydrogen adatoms, physisorbed oxygen, and chemisorbed sulfate molecules as key intermediates. Methanol does not inhibit hydrogen gas production, and oxygenated species actively participate in the HER pathway. Voltammetric measurements demonstrated that rhenium cathodes are highly efficient for methanol electrolysis in membraneless systems, suggesting their potential application in electrolysis processes involving unpurified wastewater. These findings highlight rhenium as a promising electrode material for use in sustainable energy conversion technologies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Catalyst Design Strategies for Next-Generation Water Splitting Systems)
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23 pages, 5535 KB  
Article
Synergistic Photothermal Catalysis over an MOF-Derived Matrix Enabled by Alloy-Coordination Interactions for Sustainable Hydrogen Production from Formic Acid
by Shenghao Li, Siyu Song, Chunlin Ke, Zhengting Gu, Mingzheng Liao and Chao Wang
Catalysts 2026, 16(5), 385; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16050385 - 27 Apr 2026
Viewed by 504
Abstract
Formic acid (FA) has emerged as a promising liquid hydrogen storage material, yet efficient photothermal dehydrogenation catalysts with high activity and H2 selectivity remain challenging. Herein, a polymetallic synergistic PdCu/M-ZNC (where M represents the co-doped In, Sn and Mo species) is fabricated [...] Read more.
Formic acid (FA) has emerged as a promising liquid hydrogen storage material, yet efficient photothermal dehydrogenation catalysts with high activity and H2 selectivity remain challenging. Herein, a polymetallic synergistic PdCu/M-ZNC (where M represents the co-doped In, Sn and Mo species) is fabricated by molten-salt-assisted pyrolysis of ZIF-8 precursors followed by metal incorporation. The unique molten salt environment effectively preserves the porous architecture of ZIF-8, enabling the secure anchoring of PdCu alloy nanoparticles onto the carbonaceous matrix enriched with M-Nx coordination sites. Under light irradiation, the PdCu alloy sites kinetically accelerated the overall adsorption and activation of FA molecules. Based on empirical observations and corroborated by the established literature, this alloying effect was inferred to facilitate the C-H bond cleavage and HCOO* desorption processes. Concurrently, the M-Nx sites act as efficient electron transfer channels, facilitating the rapid coupling of photogenerated electrons with protons (H+) to evolve H2. Consequently, the optimal catalyst exhibits an enhancement in gaseous product yield (404.46 mmol/g/h) and H2 selectivity (67.49%) at 75 °C. This work offers a catalyst design that aligns with several principles of green chemistry: it maximizes the atom utilization of precious Pd, incorporates synergistic non-precious metals within MOF-derived frameworks to enhance stability, and leverages solar energy to drive hydrogen production under mild conditions, presenting a more sustainable pathway for hydrogen release from liquid carriers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Catalysis for Solid Waste Upcycling: Challenges and Opportunities)
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20 pages, 3284 KB  
Article
Insight into the Piezo-Photocatalytic Degradation Mechanism of Organic Contaminant by Chromium-Doped Bismuth Ferrite Thin Film
by Roxana Jijie, Marius Dobromir, Teodora Matei, Ioana-Laura Velicu, Valentin Crăciun, Georgiana Bulai and Vasile Tiron
Catalysts 2026, 16(5), 379; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16050379 - 25 Apr 2026
Viewed by 570
Abstract
Piezo-enhanced photocatalysis is progressively considered an eco-friendly technology for contaminant removal, harvesting not only solar energy but also mechanical vibrations found in nature. Multiferroic materials present a coupled effect of various properties and can potentially increase the applicability of this process. In this [...] Read more.
Piezo-enhanced photocatalysis is progressively considered an eco-friendly technology for contaminant removal, harvesting not only solar energy but also mechanical vibrations found in nature. Multiferroic materials present a coupled effect of various properties and can potentially increase the applicability of this process. In this study, Cr- doped bismuth ferrite thin film was deposited on SrTiO3 substrate by HiPIMS, and its photo-, piezo-, and piezo-photocatalytic efficiencies in Rhodamine B (RhB) degradation were analyzed. The highest removal percentage was found under the simultaneous exposure of visible light and mechanical vibrations, reaching 86.2% after 180 min. The calculated efficiencies for photo- and piezocatalysis were 12.2% and 83.7%, respectively. The rate constant (k) for piezo-photocatalysis was 16.1 times higher than that found during photocatalytic experiments. To assess the contribution of each reactive species to the decomposition process, different reagents were added to the Rhodamine B contaminated solution. The results revealed that when p-benzoquinone was used, the degradation efficiency declined significantly from 86.2% to 37.6%, suggesting that superoxide radicals (O2•−) play a key role in decomposing RhB molecules. The structural, chemical, optical, and ferroelectric changes caused by the catalytic processes were analyzed and linked to the proposed degradation mechanisms. The poor photocatalytic efficiency was linked to an improper band structure and an improper polarization orientation of the ferroelectric domains in the as-deposited film. The degradation mechanisms in piezo-photocatalysis were driven partly by the band bending caused by mechanical vibrations and partly by the reorientation of the induced polarization of the domains in the unstrained film. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Photocatalytic Treatment of Pollutants in Water, 2nd Edition)
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17 pages, 3099 KB  
Article
Comparative Evaluation of Fungal Pyranose Oxidases for Boosting Enzymatic Saccharification of Lignocellulosic Biomass
by Xiao-Long Han, Zi-Ming Wang, Wen-Hui Xue, Zhi-Yuan Liu, Wen-Xia Song and Guo-Dong Liu
Catalysts 2026, 16(5), 371; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16050371 - 22 Apr 2026
Viewed by 645
Abstract
Pyranose oxidases (POXs, EC 1.1.3.10) are a class of fungal FAD-dependent oxidoreductases with potential for lignocellulosic bioconversion because they generate H2O2 during sugar oxidation. Despite their known catalytic properties, the role of these enzymes in promoting lignocellulose enzymatic saccharification remains [...] Read more.
Pyranose oxidases (POXs, EC 1.1.3.10) are a class of fungal FAD-dependent oxidoreductases with potential for lignocellulosic bioconversion because they generate H2O2 during sugar oxidation. Despite their known catalytic properties, the role of these enzymes in promoting lignocellulose enzymatic saccharification remains largely unexplored. In this study, POXs from Phanerochaete chrysosporium (PcPOX) and Trametes versicolor (TvPOX) were comparatively evaluated through biochemical characterization, kinetic analysis, molecular simulation, and supplementation for lignocellulose hydrolysis. PcPOX exhibited a broader substrate spectrum and a slightly higher optimum temperature, whereas TvPOX demonstrated greater stability under acidic and hydrolysis-relevant conditions and a longer half-life at 50 °C. TvPOX also showed a numerically lower apparent Km toward D-glucose, while the apparent catalytic efficiencies were comparable between the two enzymes. Molecular simulation results suggested more stable glucose binding in TvPOX. Accordingly, TvPOX was selected for hydrolysis experiments and was shown to increase the measured glucan conversion of phosphoric acid-swollen cellulose, Avicel, and corncob residue. Mixture design analysis further indicated that this positive effect depended on balanced peroxide regulation, with low catalase supplementation providing better performance. These results identify TvPOX as a promising auxiliary enzyme for cellulase-based lignocellulosic saccharification. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Enzyme Engineering and Application for Industrial Biocatalysis)
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19 pages, 2328 KB  
Article
Precisely Engineered Nitrogen-Doped Hierarchical Porous Carbon from Lignin for High-Rate and Ultra-Stable Supercapacitors
by Zhebiao Xu, Siyu Song, Zhuangjia Chen, Wenzhuo Wang, Yushen Huang, Fudong Bai, Riyang Shu, Zhipeng Tian and Chao Wang
Catalysts 2026, 16(4), 368; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16040368 - 20 Apr 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 980
Abstract
The development of high-performance and sustainable carbon electrodes is increasingly important for next-generation supercapacitors, yet controlling heteroatom doping and hierarchical pore evolution in biomass-derived carbons remains a key challenge. Lignin, as an abundant aromatic biopolymer, offers a structurally rich platform for designing functional [...] Read more.
The development of high-performance and sustainable carbon electrodes is increasingly important for next-generation supercapacitors, yet controlling heteroatom doping and hierarchical pore evolution in biomass-derived carbons remains a key challenge. Lignin, as an abundant aromatic biopolymer, offers a structurally rich platform for designing functional carbons, but its rigid cross-linked architecture limits precise pore regulation and efficient nitrogen incorporation. In this work, nitrogen-doped hierarchical porous carbons were engineered from enzymatically treated lignin through a synergistic urea-assisted nitrogen doping and KOH activation strategy. The urea–KOH co-activation drives the coordinated evolution of micropores and mesopores. This approach yields an optimized carbon material possessing a high BET surface area of 2569 m2 g−1, an interconnected micro–mesoporous architecture, and a favorable distribution of pyridinic, pyrrolic, and graphitic nitrogen species. The engineered pore hierarchy is correlated with enhanced ion transport kinetics, as evidenced by a high b value of 0.99 and a capacitive contribution of 98.5% at 100 mV s−1; nitrogen functionalities introduce redox-active sites and improve interfacial wettability. As a result, the selected material delivers a high specific capacitance of 221 F g−1 at 0.5 A g−1, strong rate capability with 84.4% retention at 20 A g−1, and excellent cycling durability with 90.7% capacitance retention after 50,000 cycles. This study demonstrates a potentially mechanistically informed, scalable pathway for coupling enzymatic structural regulation with chemical activation, offering a sustainable route for transforming lignin into high-value carbon electrodes suitable for advanced supercapacitor applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Catalysis for Solid Waste Upcycling: Challenges and Opportunities)
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32 pages, 18305 KB  
Review
Advances in Thermochemical/Catalytic Conversion Technologies for Co-Processing of Biomass and Municipal Solid Wastes
by Yujian Wu, Wenwen Liu, Linhong Xie, Leihe Cai, Haowei Li, Shengxian Xian, Zheng Liang, Qing Xu and Chunbao Xu
Catalysts 2026, 16(4), 366; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16040366 - 18 Apr 2026
Viewed by 1902
Abstract
Thermochemical/catalytic co-processing of biomass and solid wastes is a promising route for waste valorization, low-carbon energy recovery, and the co-production of fuels, chemicals, and carbon materials. Conventional pathways, including pyrolysis, gasification, liquefaction, and carbonization, provide the basic framework for mixed-feed conversion. Emerging routes, [...] Read more.
Thermochemical/catalytic co-processing of biomass and solid wastes is a promising route for waste valorization, low-carbon energy recovery, and the co-production of fuels, chemicals, and carbon materials. Conventional pathways, including pyrolysis, gasification, liquefaction, and carbonization, provide the basic framework for mixed-feed conversion. Emerging routes, such as flash Joule heating, microwave-assisted conversion, plasma processing, supercritical water treatment, solar-driven systems, and machine-learning-assisted optimization, further expand opportunities for process intensification and selective upgrading. Owing to feedstock complementarity, including hydrogen donation from plastics, catalytic effects of ash minerals, and interactions among reactive intermediates, co-processing can enhance deoxygenation, hydrogen generation, aromatization, and carbon utilization. Major challenges remain, however, including feedstock heterogeneity, reactor scale-up, catalyst stability, and the limited transferability of laboratory-scale synergy to realistic waste streams. Future progress should therefore focus on continuous validation, mechanistic clarification, and integrated techno-economic, life-cycle, and data-driven assessments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Catalytic Transformation of Biomass: From Waste to Fuels, Chemicals and High-Value Products)
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26 pages, 5537 KB  
Article
Ni/MgO-Al2O3 Hydrotalcite-Derived Catalysts for Sustainable Iso-Butanol Generation from Methanol/Ethanol Blends
by Joachim Pasel, Justus Hüging, Quoc Khanh Tran and Ralf Peters
Catalysts 2026, 16(4), 357; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16040357 - 16 Apr 2026
Viewed by 983
Abstract
The catalytically supported upgrading of green ethanol and green methanol mixtures can produce higher alcohols, such as iso-butanol, in a sustainable manner. Iso-butanol can be used as a feedstock to defossilize the chemical and transportation sectors. MgO-Al2O3 hydrotalcite-based catalysts are [...] Read more.
The catalytically supported upgrading of green ethanol and green methanol mixtures can produce higher alcohols, such as iso-butanol, in a sustainable manner. Iso-butanol can be used as a feedstock to defossilize the chemical and transportation sectors. MgO-Al2O3 hydrotalcite-based catalysts are a promising option for this purpose. In this paper, samples were synthesized using co-precipitation and urea methods with different Mg/Al molar ratios with Ni acting as the active catalytic component. Thereby, the catalysts synthesized using the urea method exhibited the greatest activity, producing iso-butanol concentrations of up to 170 mmol L−1 at 185 °C, with selectivities towards iso-butanol of 85–89% and a maximum space–time yield of 8.2 mmol g−1 h−1. The most active catalyst among all samples from this paper was characterized by 100% proportions of strong basic and medium acidic catalyst sites and the largest specific surface area. XRD analysis revealed the presence of NiO, MgO and the spinels Al2NiO4 and Al2MgO4 in both synthesis variants as well as elemental Ni in one sample from the urea synthesis. CO2-TPD and NH3-TPD experiments showed the dominance of strong basic and medium/strong acidic catalyst sites in both synthesis pathways. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Catalysis for Sustainable Energy)
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23 pages, 3738 KB  
Review
Research Progress on Novel Semiconductor Photocatalysts for Degrading VOCs
by Xiu-Juan Feng, Xin Shi, Hao-Yu Zhang, Chu-Hao Huang and Qing-Bo Yu
Catalysts 2026, 16(4), 356; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16040356 - 15 Apr 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1071
Abstract
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) pose significant health risks. Photocatalytic oxidation offers a promising route for VOC purification under ambient conditions. Based on a review of over 80 studies, this article critically evaluates research progress on four semiconductor photocatalyst systems (TiO2-based, g-C [...] Read more.
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) pose significant health risks. Photocatalytic oxidation offers a promising route for VOC purification under ambient conditions. Based on a review of over 80 studies, this article critically evaluates research progress on four semiconductor photocatalyst systems (TiO2-based, g-C3N4-based, bismuth-based oxides, and MOFs) for VOC degradation. Unlike traditional descriptive reviews, this work establishes a quality-based filtering framework to distinguish studies reporting standardized photochemical parameters from those that do not. The analysis reveals a fundamental problem: the vast majority of reviewed studies lack essential parameters (incident photon flux, apparent quantum yield, or rigorous dark adsorption equilibrium), rendering cross-study comparisons invalid. Most literature relies on non-standardized metrics such as conversion percentages or rate constants per catalyst mass. While some high-quality studies report AQY, these remain a small fraction of the literature. Within individual studies under identical conditions, modification strategies enhance activity relative to controls, but relative efficiency (ζr) values are meaningful only within the same study and cannot be compared across setups. This review thus serves a dual purpose: to summarize modification strategies and to critically expose the lack of standardization. Future research must adopt unified reporting standards (photon flux, AQY, benchmarks under identical conditions) to transform the field into a reproducible, cumulative science. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Photocatalytic Technologies for Sustainable Environmental Treatment)
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19 pages, 8771 KB  
Article
High-Entropy NiCoZnVCrOx Oxides Serve as Oxygen Carriers for NO Reduction
by Weiwei Cai and Min Zheng
Catalysts 2026, 16(4), 354; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16040354 - 15 Apr 2026
Viewed by 675
Abstract
Flue gas denitrification represents an environmentally friendly and economically viable strategy for alleviating energy crises and advancing carbon neutrality goals. Although traditional selective catalytic reduction (SCR) catalysts demonstrate excellent denitrification efficiency and catalytic stability, they still face significant challenges, including high cost and [...] Read more.
Flue gas denitrification represents an environmentally friendly and economically viable strategy for alleviating energy crises and advancing carbon neutrality goals. Although traditional selective catalytic reduction (SCR) catalysts demonstrate excellent denitrification efficiency and catalytic stability, they still face significant challenges, including high cost and ammonia slip. In this study, the high-entropy oxide (HEO) NiCoZnVCrOx was synthesized via the sol–gel method and evaluated for the reduction of NO to N2. The effects of varying reaction conditions on the NO reduction performance of this material were systematically investigated alongside the underlying reaction mechanism. The results reveal that the reduced oxygen carrier (OC) achieves optimal performance at an oxidation temperature of 800 °C, oxidizing gas flow rate of 200 mL/min and reduction time of 60 min, yielding the highest NO conversion and N2 selectivity while simultaneously minimizing NO2 selectivity. The reaction mechanism was further elucidated through a series of characterization techniques, including DRIFTS. Overall, this HEO demonstrates significant potential as a candidate OC for flue gas denitrification. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Catalytic Technologies for NOx Abatement and Environmental Sustainability)
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24 pages, 817 KB  
Review
Catalytic Systems and Mechanistic Insights into Crotonaldehyde Synthesis from Acetaldehyde: A Comprehensive Review
by Kai Yang, Feng Shi and Lingtao Wang
Catalysts 2026, 16(4), 353; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16040353 - 15 Apr 2026
Viewed by 1791
Abstract
This paper systematically reviews the recent advances in catalytic systems and reaction mechanisms for the synthesis of crotonaldehyde via aldol condensation using acetaldehyde as the feedstock. Firstly, the structural characteristics, reactivity, and important applications of crotonaldehyde in fine chemicals are outlined, with particular [...] Read more.
This paper systematically reviews the recent advances in catalytic systems and reaction mechanisms for the synthesis of crotonaldehyde via aldol condensation using acetaldehyde as the feedstock. Firstly, the structural characteristics, reactivity, and important applications of crotonaldehyde in fine chemicals are outlined, with particular emphasis on the limitations of traditional homogeneous base-catalyzed processes, such as difficulty in separation and environmental pollution caused by waste streams. On this basis, heterogeneous catalytic systems are discussed in detail, focusing on the progress of metal oxides, aluminosilicate zeolites, and heteroatom zeolites in regulating acid–base properties, active site structures, and reaction pathways. Furthermore, the typical carbanion mechanism and direct condensation mechanism in aldol condensation are summarized, and the catalyst deactivation and by-product formation mechanisms are analyzed. Finally, perspectives on the construction of efficient and green catalytic systems and future research directions are proposed, aiming to provide theoretical guidance for process optimization and catalyst design in crotonaldehyde synthesis from acetaldehyde. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Heterogeneous Catalysis for Environmental and Energy Sustainability)
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39 pages, 7672 KB  
Article
Functional Expression of the Aromatic Prenyltransferase NphB in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii Highlights Challenges in Cannabinoid Biocatalysis
by Serge Basile Nouemssi, Ayoub Bouhadada, Rémy Beauchemin, Alexandre Custeau, Sarah-Ève Gélinas, Natacha Merindol, Fatma Meddeb-Mouelhi, Hugo Germain and Isabel Desgagné-Penix
Catalysts 2026, 16(4), 346; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16040346 - 13 Apr 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1314
Abstract
Cannabinoids are high-value bioactive compounds whose sustainable production remains challenging, prompting interest in biocatalytic and microbial platforms as alternatives to plant extraction. In this study, we investigated the heterologous expression and functionality of two key cannabinoid-related enzymes in the photosynthetic microalga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii [...] Read more.
Cannabinoids are high-value bioactive compounds whose sustainable production remains challenging, prompting interest in biocatalytic and microbial platforms as alternatives to plant extraction. In this study, we investigated the heterologous expression and functionality of two key cannabinoid-related enzymes in the photosynthetic microalga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii: the aromatic prenyltransferase, NphBG286S/Y288A from Streptomyces sp., and the plant-derived cannabidiolic acid synthase (CBDAS) from Cannabis sativa. Codon-optimized genes were introduced into the nuclear genome of C. reinhardtii using several construct configurations and promoters, and stable transformants were generated and characterized for genomic integration, transcript accumulation, protein production, enzymatic activity, and cannabinoid-related metabolite formation. While NphB protein accumulation was achieved under the PSAD promoter control, CBDAS was not detected at the protein level under any condition tested. In vitro enzymatic assays using soluble algal protein extracts from NphB-expressing lines confirmed catalytic activity, yielding cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), reaching up to 633 ± 58 µg L−1. However, no CBGA production was detected in vivo, despite substrate supplementation. These results indicate that, although bacterial prenyltransferase can be functionally expressed in C. reinhardtii, efficient metabolic conversion in vivo is limited by cellular and biochemical constraints, including substrate availability, intracellular compartmentalization, and potential competition with endogenous pathways. In contrast, the absence of detectable CBDAS highlights the challenges associated with expressing complex plant oxidocyclases in this photosynthetic host. Overall, this work provides mechanistic insights into enzyme compatibility and metabolic bottlenecks in microalgal systems and outlines key considerations for the future development of photosynthetic platforms for cannabinoid biocatalysis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biocatalysis and Biosynthesis: Opportunities and Challenges)
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17 pages, 4645 KB  
Article
Constructing a CoFe2O4-Impregnated Ceramic Membrane with Catalytic Ozonation Capability for Mitigating Irreversible Membrane Fouling
by Jiahao Zhou, Yuxuan Yang, Zhe Yu, Yiming Yang, Fengtao Chen and Xiufang Chen
Catalysts 2026, 16(4), 344; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16040344 - 11 Apr 2026
Viewed by 904
Abstract
To in situ and efficiently degrade irreversible membrane contaminants under mild conditions, SiC ceramic membranes (CMs) were imparted a catalytic ozonation functionality. A spinel-type CoFe2O4 catalyst was fabricated via a citrate-assisted sol–gel method and subsequently impregnated into the macropores of [...] Read more.
To in situ and efficiently degrade irreversible membrane contaminants under mild conditions, SiC ceramic membranes (CMs) were imparted a catalytic ozonation functionality. A spinel-type CoFe2O4 catalyst was fabricated via a citrate-assisted sol–gel method and subsequently impregnated into the macropores of SiC ceramic membranes through a urea-assisted one-step combustion technique. The as-prepared catalytic membranes (CoFe2O4-CM) were systematically characterized by SEM, EDS, XRD and XPS techniques, and the catalytic ozonation performance was evaluated in an integrated catalytic ozonation–membrane separation system (CoFe2O4-CM/O3). A flux recovery rate (FRR) of 93.33% was achieved at an ozone concentration of 70.27 mg·L−1 within 30 min, indicating that a catalytic self-cleaning membrane was successfully developed. The possible catalytic reaction mechanism was elucidated by identifying reactive oxygen species generated using free radical quenching tests and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) analysis. This study offers a promising and environmentally friendly strategy for ceramic membrane cleaning in various membrane separation fields. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Catalysts for Energy Conversion and Environmental Protection)
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22 pages, 5238 KB  
Review
Recent Progress in Polyamide Recycling for Sustainable Circular Economy
by Yahui Liu, Zixin Qi, Jiaxing Zhang, Mengfan Wang, Shengping You and Wei Qi
Catalysts 2026, 16(4), 340; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16040340 - 9 Apr 2026
Viewed by 1944
Abstract
Polyamide (PA) is widely used as a high-performance engineering thermoplastic in automotive components and textiles, due to its superior mechanical strength and chemical resistance. However, the increase in PA waste has posed significant challenges to resource sustainability and environmental protection. Despite breakthrough development [...] Read more.
Polyamide (PA) is widely used as a high-performance engineering thermoplastic in automotive components and textiles, due to its superior mechanical strength and chemical resistance. However, the increase in PA waste has posed significant challenges to resource sustainability and environmental protection. Despite breakthrough development achieved in PA recycling, key barriers remain in process scale-up and high-value recovery. This review examines the current state of PA recycling, analyzing the research prospects of mechanical and chemical recycling from economic feasibility and environmental impact. We present discussions on innovative recycling approaches for PA, including upcycling, molecular design of novel PA derivatives, chemo-biological coupling and solvent-based recovery, offering potential solutions to the sustainable circular economy and green cycles. Finally, by presenting case studies, we highlight pathways toward future innovation that inform industrial-scale implementation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications of Catalysis in Organic Chemistry: Sustainable Catalysts for Sustainable Processes)
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20 pages, 3978 KB  
Article
Enhancing C-O Bond Cleavage in 2,6-Dimethoxy-4-methylphenol Hydrodeoxygenation via Oxygen Vacancy Engineering in Pd-Pt/NiO-FeOx Nanosheets
by Changyi Chen, Haonan Chen, Lin Liu, Ruifeng Luo, Haodong Huang, Caiwei Wang, Yuanyuan Ge, Bo Chen and Zhili Li
Catalysts 2026, 16(4), 330; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16040330 - 3 Apr 2026
Viewed by 924
Abstract
Achieving selective conversion of lignin-derived phenolic compounds to cycloalkanes under mild conditions remains a significant challenge. Herein, we report a novel iron-incorporated two-dimensional NiO nanosheet supported Pd-Pt alloy catalyst (Pd1.7-Pt0.3/NiO-5FeOx) that is capable of facilitating highly efficient [...] Read more.
Achieving selective conversion of lignin-derived phenolic compounds to cycloalkanes under mild conditions remains a significant challenge. Herein, we report a novel iron-incorporated two-dimensional NiO nanosheet supported Pd-Pt alloy catalyst (Pd1.7-Pt0.3/NiO-5FeOx) that is capable of facilitating highly efficient hydrodeoxygenation (HDO) of lignin-derived phenolic model compounds (e.g., 2,6-dimethoxy-4-methylphenol) under mild conditions (250 °C, 5 atm H2). The reaction mechanism was investigated through various characterization techniques and mechanistic studies: introducing FeOx into the NiO support increases the proportion of defect-related oxygen species (Oβ), enhances adsorption of the key hydrogenated alcohol intermediate 4-methylcyclohexanol, and optimizes the acidity distribution of the catalyst, thereby promoting C(sp3)-O bond cleavage (dehydroxylation) toward cycloalkane formation. The catalyst achieved high conversion (>95%) for various lignin-derived phenolics and high selectivity (93.0%) toward methylcyclohexane under mild conditions. This work offers new insights into the design of efficient biomass conversion catalysts under mild conditions and provides an energy-efficient route for the sustainable utilization of lignin resources. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Catalytic Conversion of Biomass: From Fundamental Research to Industrial Applications)
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13 pages, 4749 KB  
Article
First-Principles Investigation of the Stability and CH4 Activation Capability of Defective h-BN
by Chuanye Xiong and Jin Tang
Catalysts 2026, 16(4), 321; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16040321 - 2 Apr 2026
Viewed by 750
Abstract
Hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) has been widely applied in catalysis. Nevertheless, most research has focused on using h-BN as a substrate to anchor active transition metals, without probing the intrinsic activity of h-BN vacancies. In this work, we investigated the stability and catalytic [...] Read more.
Hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) has been widely applied in catalysis. Nevertheless, most research has focused on using h-BN as a substrate to anchor active transition metals, without probing the intrinsic activity of h-BN vacancies. In this work, we investigated the stability and catalytic activity of different h-BN vacancies. We found that B-terminated vacancies are more likely to be exposed under static conditions. The Nv, BN2, and BN3 vacancies show intermediate reaction energies for CH4 activation. Although the B–N pair over the BN2 vacancy model has the lowest barrier for CH4 activation, the negative reaction energy could lead to a high potential for surface poisoning. Interestingly, the unsaturated B–B pair over Nv is a promising site for C–H bond activation. Further COHP analysis implies that the high C–H bond homolytic cleavage activity of the B–B pair arises from its relatively weak interaction, which can promote H insertion. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Computational Catalysis)
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14 pages, 1058 KB  
Article
Dry-Mill Synthesis of Photocatalysts Based on Layered Double Hydroxides
by Gabriel Soares Bento, Pablo Rodríguez-Miguel, Katlin Ivon Barrios Eguiluz, Iara de Fátima Gimenez and Raquel Trujillano
Catalysts 2026, 16(4), 318; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16040318 - 2 Apr 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1015
Abstract
The mechanosynthesis by dry-milling and characterization of layered double hydroxides (LDH) containing Zn2+ in the layer and Cl− as interlayer anion has been investigated. The solids were synthesized by mechanosynthesis, by means of a dry-milling method using a planetary mill. This [...] Read more.
The mechanosynthesis by dry-milling and characterization of layered double hydroxides (LDH) containing Zn2+ in the layer and Cl− as interlayer anion has been investigated. The solids were synthesized by mechanosynthesis, by means of a dry-milling method using a planetary mill. This kind of synthesis is totally ecological as the stoichiometric amounts of reactants have been used to obtain the original solids, so, there was no need for washing or calcination thus avoiding water or atmospheric contamination. To compare results and prove that Cl− is the interlayer anion, a carbonate-LDH has been synthesized by the coprecipitation method. Original solids were calcined at 450 °C to obtain the oxides. Samples were fully characterized and used as catalysts in the paracetamol photodegradation to test the usefulness of these ecologically obtained solids as decontaminants. An assortment of techniques, such as XRD, FT-IR, TG-DTA, and N2 adsorption–desorption isotherms, has been utilized to prove the goodness of the dry-mill method applied. The X-ray diffraction data and the FT-IR and thermal results confirmed that the samples synthesized were hydrotalcites with the Cl− as the interlayer anion. The paracetamol photodegradation tests indicated that the dry milling procedure enhances the reaction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Layered Double Hydroxides and Related Materials for Advanced Heterogeneous Catalytic Processes)
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20 pages, 4177 KB  
Article
Nd2O3/TiO2 Nanotube Array Heterojunctions: Rare Earth Modification Driven Efficient Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting for Hydrogen Production
by Wei Wang, Wen-Ya Zhong, Ke-Xian Li, Yang Yang, Bai-Rui Chen, Chi Xing, Hai-Long Wang, Xin-Zhi Tian, Xiao-Wei Wu, Yan-Xin Chen and Can-Zhong Lu
Catalysts 2026, 16(4), 307; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16040307 - 1 Apr 2026
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1123
Abstract
The photoelectrochemical water-splitting process for hydrogen production is limited by the large bandgap of semiconductor titanium dioxide (TiO2) and by interfacial recombination at particle interfaces. The technique used in this paper is that of electrochemical anodization to produce robust, ordered TiO [...] Read more.
The photoelectrochemical water-splitting process for hydrogen production is limited by the large bandgap of semiconductor titanium dioxide (TiO2) and by interfacial recombination at particle interfaces. The technique used in this paper is that of electrochemical anodization to produce robust, ordered TiO2 nanotube arrays (TiO2 nanorod arrays denoted as TNTAs). Using the immersion-annealing method, Nd2O3 nanoparticles can be immobilized in situ, and Nd2O3/TNTAs composite photoanodes are fabricated. The heterointerface caused between the Nd2O3 nanoparticles and TiO2 results in the alignment of the Fermi levels and the formation of band bending and an internal electric field at the interface. It allows rapid photo-generated electron-hole (e−/h+) separation at the interface and, simultaneously, introduces novel localized electron states of Nd3+ within the TiO2 bandgap. This triggers hybridisation between the 3d orbitals of Ti and the 2p orbitals of O, thereby altering the band structure of TiO2. The best-performing Nd2O3/TNTAs photoelectrode outperforms pure TNTAs, with a photocurrent density of 1.59 mA·cm−2 at 1.23 V vs. RHE. It produces 162.6 μmol·cm−2 of hydrogen in a 3 h photocatalytic hydrogen production experiment, which is about 12.2 times that of pure TNTAs. This approach highlights the unique benefits and creative opportunities of applying rare-earth elements to address the critical issues of photocatalysts, such as significant band gaps and rapid recombination. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Catalytic Strategies for Sustainable Water Splitting)
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14 pages, 3663 KB  
Article
A Stable Dinuclear Monocationic Gold(I) Complex as Silver-Free Catalyst for Alkyne Hydrofunctionalizations
by Alberto Damian, Fabio Xu, Giulia Saggiotti and Andrea Biffis
Catalysts 2026, 16(4), 306; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16040306 - 1 Apr 2026
Viewed by 1059
Abstract
Gold(I) complexes are particularly useful as catalysts in a variety of reactions including, in particular, the electrophilic activation of alkyne substrates, yet they generally require the addition of a silver salt to activate the gold complex by removing an anionic ligand. This results [...] Read more.
Gold(I) complexes are particularly useful as catalysts in a variety of reactions including, in particular, the electrophilic activation of alkyne substrates, yet they generally require the addition of a silver salt to activate the gold complex by removing an anionic ligand. This results into higher costs and possible problems related to the non-innocence of the silver additive. In this contribution, we highlight the possibility to proficiently use a dinuclear monocationic gold(I) complex developed in our laboratory as a silver-free catalyst. The complex, featuring a bridging N-phosphanyl-N-heterocyclic carbene (NHCP) ligand, indeed exhibits notable activity and selectivity in standard alkyne hydroamination and hydroalkoxylation reactions, particularly in the case of internal alkynes and secondary aromatic amines as substrates. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Catalysis in Organic and Polymer Chemistry)
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25 pages, 3207 KB  
Review
Strategies to Facilitate the Cracking of Endothermic Hydrocarbon Fuels: A Review
by Yajun Ji, Feiya Xu, Sendi Jiang, Kun Fang, Jiawen Liu, Tianke Guo and Zhiyao Huo
Catalysts 2026, 16(4), 317; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16040317 - 1 Apr 2026
Viewed by 1357
Abstract
Utilizing the pyrolysis reaction of endothermic hydrocarbon fuels to provide thermal protection for hypersonic vehicles is a feasible approach. The introduction of catalysts or cracking-initiating additives could promote hydrocarbon fuel cracking and increase the reaction heat sink. Catalysts such as ZSM-5 zeolite, Al [...] Read more.
Utilizing the pyrolysis reaction of endothermic hydrocarbon fuels to provide thermal protection for hypersonic vehicles is a feasible approach. The introduction of catalysts or cracking-initiating additives could promote hydrocarbon fuel cracking and increase the reaction heat sink. Catalysts such as ZSM-5 zeolite, Al2O3, and precious metals were commonly used for hydrocarbon fuel cracking. By optimizing their pore structure and acidity, their catalytic cracking performance can be effectively improved. These catalysts can function not only as catalytic coatings but also be dispersed in the fuel to act via quasi-homogeneous catalytic cracking. Additionally, small-molecule and macromolecular additives could crack at lower temperatures to generate active free radicals, thereby initiating the cracking of hydrocarbons and increasing the reaction heat sink. Under the conditions of a reaction temperature of 650–750 °C, a pressure of 3–5.5 MPa, and a fuel flow rate of 1 g/s, quasi-homogeneous catalysts can enhance the heat sink of hydrocarbon fuel cracking by 5–21%, while cracking-initiating additives can enhance it by 5.6–8.6%. Therefore, based on the different action modes of catalysts or additives, this review summarizes the recent research on improving the cracking of endothermic hydrocarbons from three aspects: coating catalysts, quasi-homogeneous catalysts, and cracking-initiating additives. Subsequently, the potential challenges of each approach in practical applications are analyzed. Furthermore, based on the current research findings, we outline future research directions with the expectation of facilitating the advancement of efficient cracking technologies for endothermic hydrocarbons. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Catalytic Reaction Engineering)
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14 pages, 4657 KB  
Article
Strong Metal–Support Interaction in Rh/TiO2 Catalysts for Reductive Deuteration of Quinoline
by Wenting Zhang, Xiang-Ting Min and Botao Qiao
Catalysts 2026, 16(4), 301; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16040301 - 31 Mar 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 590
Abstract
Reductive deuteration of N-heterocycles provides an efficient route to deuterated scaffolds, yet achieving controlled deuterium incorporation in quinoline remains challenging. Herein, we report a high-temperature H2-treated Rh/TiO2 catalyst (Rh/TiO2–H500) that enables efficient reductive deuteration of quinoline using D [...] Read more.
Reductive deuteration of N-heterocycles provides an efficient route to deuterated scaffolds, yet achieving controlled deuterium incorporation in quinoline remains challenging. Herein, we report a high-temperature H2-treated Rh/TiO2 catalyst (Rh/TiO2–H500) that enables efficient reductive deuteration of quinoline using D2O as a deuterium source. Structural characterization reveals that reduction at 500 °C induces a pronounced strong metal–support interaction (SMSI), leading to partial TiOx encapsulation of Rh nanoparticles and interfacial electron transfer that generates electron-rich Rh0 species. This optimized interfacial structure promotes cooperative C–H activation and effective H/D transfer across the reduced quinoline framework, affording high deuterium incorporation at multiple positions of 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinoline (THQ). These results highlight the importance of SMSI-driven electronic and interfacial modulation in regulating reductive H/D exchange over heterogeneous catalysts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Catalytic Materials)
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