Metal–organic framework derived single-atom catalysts for CO2 conversion to methanol

The conversion of CO2 to methanol is a promising and economically profitable process for both CO2 emission reduction and energy renewability. Owing to the unique features of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) in flexible tailorability of metal nodes and organic ligands, MOF-derived single-atom catalysts (SACs) have been demonstrated with excellent catalytic performance in catalysis. This review highlights the current developments of MOF-derived SACs for CO2 conversion to methanol, via electroreduction, photoreduction, and hydrogenation processes. The reaction pathways and mechanisms are discussed, with special emphasis on the structural advantages of MOF-derived SACs in altering the reaction pathway for CO2 conversion to methanol. Moreover, the innovative strategy for MOF-derived SACs designing through machine learning is introduced. Finally, the challenges and outlooks in futher development of MOF-derived SACs for CO2 conversion to methanol are discussed.