Heterogeneous Catalysis for the Valorization of CO₂: Role of Bifunctional Processes in the Production of Chemicals

Carbon dioxide is an abundant carbon feedstock, and there exists a sustained interest in methods for its utilization. At the moment, several routes that rely on the use of renewable energy for the valorization of CO2 are being considered, with a strong emphasis on fully electrocatalytic routes. In this Perspective, we highlight the role that heterogeneous catalysis may play in hybrid processes in which H2 is obtained via electrolysis and CO2 is valorized in a second, dark step. Targeting high selectivity to value-added products (olefins and aromatics), we cover CO2-to-chemicals routes that involve cascade multifunctional processes. In doing so, we highlight the main advantages of this approach along with the most important challenges and remaining questions.