Thermochemical CO<sub>2</sub> Reduction to Methanol\nover Metal-Based Single-Atom Catalysts (SACs): Outlook and Challenges\nfor Developments

The conversion of thermodynamically inert CO<sub>2</sub> into methanol\nholds immense promise for addressing the pressing environmental and\nenergy challenges of our time. This article offers a succinct overview\nof the development of single-atom catalysts (SACs) for thermochemical\nhydrogenation of CO<sub>2</sub> to methanol, encompassing research\nadvancements, advantages, potential hurdles, and other essential aspects\nrelated to these catalysts. Our aim of this work is to provide a deeper\nunderstanding of the intricacies of the catalytic structures of the\nsingle-atom sites and their unique structure–activity relationships\nin catalyzing the conversion of CO<sub>2</sub> to methanol. We also\npresent insights into the optimal design of SACs, drawing from our\nown research and those of fellow scientists. This research thrust\nis poised to contribute significantly to the development of next-generation\nSACs, which are crucial in advancing the sustainable production of\nmethanol from CO<sub>2</sub>.