Non-thermal plasma catalysis for conversion of CO₂ and CH₄ to oxygenates: a mini review

Non-thermal plasma (NTP) is an emerging technology for the conversion of CO₂ and CH₄ under mild conditions. This mini review systematically summarizes recent advances in NTP catalysis for the direct conversion of CO₂ and CH₄ into value-added oxygenates, with a focus on two key aspects: catalyst design and reactor optimization. The metal active sites (e.g., Cu, Ni, Co) and their properties (valence state, dispersion) are critical in directing reaction pathways towards specific oxygenates like alcohols or acids, while the support material modulates performance by influencing the local electric field and stabilizing intermediates. Dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) reactors are predominant, and innovations in reactor structure, electrode design (e.g., water electrodes, surface microdischarge), and configuration (e.g., plasma bubble reactors) are crucial for enhancing efficiency and selectivity, even enabling long-chain hydrocarbon formation. Despite progress, challenges in selectivity and energy efficiency remain. Future efforts should focus on rational catalyst design and advanced reactor integration to advance the industrial application of NTP for greenhouse gas valorization.