Progress in photocatalytic reduction of CO<sub>2</sub> to CO by MOF materials

By harnessing the power of photocatalysis, there is a promising pathway to develop sustainable carbon cycles, which can significantly reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and advance the goal of sustainable energy development. MOFs, with their ordered porous structures, have shown tremendous potential in photocatalytic CO2 reduction. These materials are characterized by their excellent structural tunability, large surface areas, and outstanding CO2 capture capabilities, making them ideal candidates for photocatalytic reactions. In the context of CO2 reduction, the photocatalytic performance of MOFs is critically influenced by their light absorption properties, material design, and CO2 capture efficiency. In recent years, researchers have made significant progress in exploring and developing MOF materials specifically for reducing CO2 to carbon monoxide (CO). This paper reviews some of the most representative MOF materials in this domain, discussing their performance, advantages, and the challenges they face in practical applications. By synthesizing these research outcomes, we can gain a deeper understanding of the operational mechanisms of MOFs, providing valuable insights and guidance for future research directions.