@article{Sun2026, 
author = {Chuman Sun and Fengxiang Zhang and Xiaowang Li and Jiabi Ma},
title = {Activation and transformation of carbon dioxide by gas-phase species: Mechanisms and advances},
year = {2026},
journal = {Carbon Future},
volume = {3},
number = {2},
pages = {9200076},
keywords = {carbon dioxide activation, mass spectrometry, theoretical calculations, gas-phase chemistry},
url = {https://www.sciopen.com/article/10.26599/CF.2026.9200076},
doi = {10.26599/CF.2026.9200076},
abstract = {CO2 activation and transformation processes are essential for sustainable energy development and environmental remediation. In this review, we describe our advances in the use of gas-phase ions to mediate these processes, which have provided unique molecular-level mechanistic insights by combining mass spectrometry and density functional theory calculations. This review is structured around three fundamental CO2 transformation reactions: reduction to CO through O-atom transfer to a suitable oxygen acceptor, B–C bond formation via reactions with metal borides, and C–N bond formation via coupling with NH3 or N2. The fundamental knowledge uncovered in these gas-phase studies establishes a foundational framework for future research and the rational design of novel catalytic systems for CO2 conversion.}
}