Enhanced CO2 Photoreduction with Noble Metal‐Modified CeO2‐Synthesis, Mechanisms, and Catalytic Insights: A Minireview

Abstract

AbstractComposite materials integrating precious metals (Au, Ag, Pd, Pt, Ru, Rh, Ir) with CeO2, a rare earth metal oxide, are increasingly utilized in photocatalytic CO2 reduction. CeO2, notable for its redox characteristics, oxygen storage capacity (OSC), and abundant oxygen vacancies (Ov), emerges as a key player in semiconductor catalyst research. The selection of precious metals and their application techniques are crucial in modifying CeO2′s wide bandgap and enhancing light absorption, thereby influencing the photocatalytic efficiency. Approaches for incorporating precious metals onto CeO2 include single atoms, metal clusters, and nanoparticles. This review provides an in‐depth analysis of the progress in composite photocatalysts comprising precious metals and CeO2 for CO2 reduction. It examines diverse modification strategies, such as particle size adjustment and heterojunction formation. The review concisely elucidates the principles behind converting CO2 into high‐value products (hydrocarbons, C1, C2, and C2+). Lastly, it addresses the challenges and future directions for precious metal‐CeO2 catalysts in photocatalytic CO2 reduction.