Cell-free biocatalysis coupled with photo-catalysis and electro-catalysis: Efficient CO_(2)-to-chemical conversion

The increasing atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO_(2)) concentration has exposed a series of crises in the earth's ecological environment.How to effectively fix and convert carbon dioxide into products with added value has attracted the attention of many researchers.Cell-free enzyme catalytic system coupled with electrical and light have been a promising attempt in the field of biological carbon fixation in recent years.In this review,the research progresses of photoenzyme catalysis,electroenzyme catalysis and photo-electroenzyme catalysis for converting carbon dioxide into chemical products in cell-free systems are systematically summarized.We focus on reviewing and comparing various coupling methods and principles of photoenzyme catalysis and electroenzyme catalysis in cell-free systems,especially the materials used in the construction of the coupling system,and analyze and point out the characteristics and possible problems of different coupling methods.Finally,we discuss the major challenges and prospects of coupling physical signals and cell-free enzymatic catalytic systems in the field of CO_(2) fixation,suggesting possible strategies to improve the carbon sequestration capacity of such systems.

Acetalization strategy in biomass valorization: a review

Acetalization represents an appealing approach for the valorization of biobased platform molecules into valuable chemicals and fuels.Typically,it serves as both a synthesis tool for renewable cyclic acetals and a protection strategy to improve selectivity in biomass conversion.This contribution provides an overview on the application of the acetalization strategy in biomass valorization including synthesis of cyclic acetal fuel additives from the acetalization of biobased furanic compounds with biogenic ethylene glycol/glycerol and acetalization as a protection approach to improve product selectivity in biomass valorization.The latest progresses in the development of catalytic systems for the acetalization of biobased furanic compounds and biogenic ethylene glycol/glycerol are systematically summarized and discussed,with an emphasis on the reaction pathway,relationship between catalyst structures and their performance,and relevant catalytic mechanism.Moreover,the application of the acetalization strategy for protecting carbonyl groups/diol structure functionalities to improve the target products'selectivity in lignin depolymerization,5-hydroxymethylfurfural oxidation,sorbitol dehydration,and xylose hydrogenation is also highlighted.Eventually,the prospects and challenges in the synthesis of cyclic acetal fuel additives as well as applying acetalization as a protection strategy in biomass valorization are outlined.

Ordered mesoporous materials for water pollution treatment:Adsorption and catalysis

To meet the growing emission of water contaminants,the development of new materials that enhance the efficiency of the water treatment system is urgent.Ordered mesoporous materials provide opportunities in environmental processing applications due to their exceptionally high surface areas,large pore sizes,and enough pore volumes.These properties might enhance the performance of materials concerning adsorption/catalysis capability,durability,and stability.In this review,we enumerate the ordered mesoporous materials as adsorbents/catalysts and their modifications in water pollution treatment from the past decade,including heavy metals(Hg^(2+),Pb^(2+),Cd^(2+),Cr^(6+),etc.),toxic anions(nitrate,phosphate,fluoride,etc.),and organic contaminants(organic dyes,antibiotics,etc.).These contributions demonstrate a deep understanding of the synergistic effect between the incorporated framework and homogeneous active centers.Besides,the challenges and perspectives of the future developments of ordered mesoporous materials in wastewater treatment are proposed.This work provides a theoretical basis and complete summary for the application of ordered mesoporous materials in the removal of contaminants from aqueous solutions.

Non-Gaussian quantum states generated via quantum catalysis and their statistical properties

A new kind of non-Gaussian quantum catalyzed state is proposed via multiphoton measurements and two-mode squeezing as an input of thermal state.The characteristics of the generated multiphoton catalysis output state depends on the thermal parameter,catalyzed photon number and squeezing parameter.We then analyze the nonclassical properties by examining the photon number distribution,photocount distribution and partial negativity of the Wigner function.Our findings indicate that nonclassicality can be achieved through the implementation of multiphoton catalysis operations and modulated by the thermal parameter,catalyzed photon number and squeezing parameter.

Identification of origin of insulating polymer maneuvered photoredox catalysis

Solid non-conjugated polymers have long been regarded as insulators due to deficiency of delocalizedπelectrons along the molecular chain framework.Up to date,origin of insulating polymer regulated charge transfer has not yet been uncovered.In this work,we unleash the root origin of charge transport capability of insulating polymer in photocatalysis.We ascertain that insulating polymer plays crucial roles in fine tuning of electronic structure of transition metal chalcogenides(TMCs),which mainly include altering surface electron density of TMCs for accelerating charge transport kinetics,triggering the generation of defect over TMCs for prolonging carrier lifetime,and acting as hole-trapping mediator for retarding charge recombination.These synergistic roles contribute to the charge transfer of insulating polymer.Our work opens a new vista of utilizing solid insulating polymers for maneuvering charge transfer toward solar energy conversion.

Structure design and electrochemical properties of carbon-based single atom catalysts in energy catalysis:A review

Single atom catalysts(SACs) possessing regulated electronic structure, high atom utilization, and superior catalytic efficiency have been studied in almost all fields in recent years. Carbon-based supporting SACs are becoming popular materials because of their low cost, high electron conductivity, and controllable surface property. At the stage of catalysts preparation, the rational design of active sites is necessary for the substantial improvement of activity of catalysts. To date, the reported design strategies are mainly about synthesis mechanism and synthetic method. The level of understanding of design strategies of carbon-based single atom catalysts is requiring deep to be paved. The design strategies about manufacturing defects and coordination modulation of catalysts are presented. The design strategies are easy to carry out in the process of drawing up preparation routes. The components of carbon-based SACs can be divided into two parts: active site and carbon skeleton. In this review, the manufacture of defects and coordination modulation of two parts are introduced, respectively. The structure features and design strategies from the active sites and carbon skeletons to the overall catalysts are deeply discussed.Then, the structural design of different nano-carbon SACs is introduced systematically. The characterization of active site and carbon skeleton and the detailed mechanism of reaction process are summarized and analyzed. Next, the applications in the field of electrocatalysis for oxygen conversion and hydrogen conversion are illustrated. The relationships between the superior performance and the structure of active sites or carbon skeletons are discussed. Finally, the conclusion of this review and prospects on the abundant space for further promotion in broader fields are depicted. This review highlights the design and preparation thoughts from the parts to the whole. The detailed and systematic discussion will provide useful guidance for design of SACs for readers.

Why the abnormal phenomena of D-band center theory exist?A new BASED theory for surface catalysis and chemistry

Since the D-band center theory was proposed,it has been widely used in the fields of surface chemistry by almost all researchers,due to its easy understanding,convenient operation and relative accuracy.However,with the continuous development of material systems and modification strategies,researchers have gradually found that D-band center theory is usually effective for large metal particle systems,but for small metal particle systems or semiconductors,such as single atom systems,the opposite conclusion to the D-band center theory is often obtained.To solve the issue above,here we propose a bonding and anti-bonding orbitals stable electron intensity difference(BASED)theory for surface chemistry.The newly-proposed BASED theory can not only successfully explain the abnormal phenomena of D-band center theory,but also exhibits a higher accuracy for prediction of adsorption energy and bond length of intermediates on active sites.Importantly,a new phenomenon of the spin transition state in the adsorption process is observed based on the BASED theory,where the active center atom usually yields an unstable high spin transition state to enhance its adsorption capability in the adsorption process of intermediates when their distance is about 2.5Å.In short,the BASED theory can be considered as a general principle to understand catalytic mechanism of intermediates on surfaces.

Cobalt phthalocyanine promoted copper catalysts toward enhanced electro reduction of CO_(2)to C_(2):Synergistic catalysis or tandem catalysis?

The activity and selectivity of electrocatalytic CO_(2)reduction reaction(CO_(2)RR)to C_(2)products on metal catalysts can be regulated by molecular surfactants.However,the mechanism behind it remains elusive and debatable.Herein,copper nanowires(Cu NWs)were fabricated and decorated with cobalt phthalocyanine(CoPc).The electronic interaction between the Cu NWs,CoPc,CO_(2) and CO_(2)RR intermediates were explored by density functional theory(DFT)calculations.It was found that the selectivity and activity of CO_(2)RR towards C_(2)products on Cu NWs were considerably enhanced from 35.2%to 69.9%by surface decoration of CoPc.DFT calculations revealed that CO_(2)RR can proceed in the interphase between Cu substrate and CoPc,and the CO_(2)RR intermediates could synergistically bond with both Cu and Co metal centre in CuNWs-CoPc,which favours the adsorption of CO_(2),CO and CO_(2)RR intermediates,thus reducing the free energy for CO-COcoupling towards C_(2)products.The synergistic interaction was further extended to phthalocyanine(Pc)and other metal phthalocyanine derivatives(MPc),where a relatively weaker synergistic interaction of COintermediates with MPc and Cu substrate and only a slight enhancement of CO_(2)RR towards C_(2) products were observed.This study demonstrates a synergistic catalysis pathway for CO_(2)RR,a novel perspective in interpreting the role of CoPc in enhancing the activity and selectivity of CO_(2)RR on Cu NWs,in contrast to the conventional tandem catalysis mechanism.

Discussion of Misleading on the Interpretation of the Word “Catalysis, Catalyst”

The main idea of this paper is what the resource of the serious error of the widely popular Chemical Reaction Mode catalysis Mechanism-CRMM is. The wrong definition of “catalysis, catalyst” by the catalytic academia boss leads to the wrong interpretation of “catalysis, catalyst” by linguists (Dictionary). The interpretation of “catalysis, catalyst” in a dictionary is misleading. The most fundamental reason for this error is that catalysis experts always believe that catalysts participate in chemical reactions. The result will appear as a series of impossible events. Such as catalysis cyclic reaction, opinions vary intermedium, catalysts repeated decomposition—formation, oxidation-reduction or life and death (enzyme), Sabatier’s principle and Boudart’s principle. The wrong theory leads the research and application of catalysts to the bottomless abyss, and industrial production suffers great losses. Electron Orbital Deformation-Recovere cyclic catalysis Mechanism-EODRM or Electron Cyclic Donate-Adopt catalysis Mechanism-ECDAM shows that the catalytic phenomenon is a physical phenomenon, not a chemical phenomenon, the catalyst does not participate in chemical reactions, only contact is the electron donate-adopt cycle, is the electron orbital deformation recovery cycle Chinese and foreign scholars should change the interpretation on the “catalysis, catalyst”, or add two new words: “contact and contactor”, it is to give up “catalysis, catalyst” altogether.

The synthesis of tetracyclic coumarins via decarboxylative asymmetric[4+2]cycloadditions enabled by Pd(0)/Cu(I)synergistic catalysis

Tetracyclic coumarins are a class of important compounds with diverse and superior pharmacolog‐ical activities.However,a direct stereoselective method from simple and readily‐made coumarins derivatives remains challenging due to the inertness of coumarins as dienophiles.Herein,we de‐velop a decarboxylative asymmetric[4+2]cycloaddition of 3‐cyanocoumarins with vinyl benzoxa‐zinones,affording the coumarin‐derived condensed rings bearing three continuous stereocenters in high yields with excellent diastereoselectivities(>20/1 d.r.)and enantioselectivities(up to 99%ee).This direct enantioselective reaction was achieved by a Pd(0)/Cu(I)bimetallic catalytic system.The mechanism studies indicated that the synergistic activation effect,in which chiral Cu(I)as an availa‐ble Lewis acid catalyst activates 3‐cyanocoumarin and chiral Pd(0)complex activates benzoxazi‐none by the formation ofπ‐allyl‐palladium intermediate,plays an important role on the stereoselec‐tive control.The current work provides a new activation modes of Cu catalyst in the Pd/Cu bimetal‐lic catalytic system.

New paths and research directions in CO_(2) conversion by electro-, photoand plasma catalysis

CO_(2) conversion into value-added products by electro-, photoand plasma catalysis under mild operating conditions(ambient temperature and pressure) is an emerging area to achieve carbon circularity by producing chemicals and fuels using directly renewable energy. Among all CO_(2) conversion approaches, the electrocatalytic reduction of CO_(2) is the most mature technology, capable of achieving high productivity(i.e. high current densities) at large scale, especially for producing carbon monoxide(CO), but with many examples showing selectivity to C_(2) carbon products.

Importance, features and uses of metal oxide catalysts in heterogeneous catalysis

This short review paper aims at assembling the present state of the art of the multiuses of metal oxides in heterogeneous catalysis, concerning liquid and gaseous phases of the reactant mixtures on solid catalysts. It includes the description of the main types of metal oxide catalysts, of their various preparation procedures and of the main reactions catalysed by them (acid-base type, selective and total oxidations, bi-functional catalysis, photocatalysis, biomass treatments, environmental catalysis and some of the numerous industrial applications). Challenges and prospectives are also discussed.

Recent advances in VOCs and CO removal via photothermal synergistic catalysis

Currently,air pollution is being exacerbated by rapid social,economic,and industrial development.Major air pollutants include volatile organic compounds(VOCs)and CO.Photocatalytic and thermocatalytic technology can be used to convert VOCs and CO into harmless gases effectively.Recently,photothermal synergistic catalysis has aroused much attention because of its higher performance than those of individual photocatalytic and thermocatalytic processes.There have been many reviews on separate photocatalysts and thermocatalysts for the treatment of VOCs and CO,but few reviews have focused on photothermal synergistic catalysis.In this minireview,we concentrate on recent progress into photothermal synergistic catalysis for the efficient removal of VOCs and CO.The treatment of typical VOCs(such as benzene,toluene,ethanol,formaldehyde,acetone,propylene,and propane)and CO are summarized and analyzed.Furthermore,we discuss the use of conventional reactor technology,such as fixed‐bed quartz reactors,for VOCs and CO removal.We also discuss the mechanism of the photothermal synergistic catalytic removal of VOCs and CO.Finally,we present perspectives for the photothermal synergistic catalytic removal of VOCs and CO.

Anisotropic gold nanoparticles: Preparation and applications in catalysis

Despite the high amount of scientific work dedicated to the gold nanoparticles in catalysis, most of the research has been performed utilising supported nanoparticles obtained by traditional impreg‐nation of gold salts onto a support, co‐precipitation or deposition‐precipitation methods which do not benefit from the recent advances in nanotechnologies. Only more recently, gold catalyst scien‐tists have been exploiting the potential of preforming the metal nanoparticles in a colloidal suspen‐sion before immobilisation with great results in terms of catalytic activity and the morphology con‐trol of mono‐and bimetallic catalysts. On the other hand, the last decade has seen the emergence of more advanced control in gold metal nanoparticle synthesis, resulting in a variety of anisotropic gold nanoparticles with easily accessible new morphologies that offer control over the coordination of surface atoms and the optical properties of the nanoparticles （tunable plasmon band） with im‐mense relevance for catalysis. Such morphologies include nanorods, nanostars, nanoflowers, den‐dritic nanostructures or polyhedral nanoparticles to mention a few. In addition to highlighting newly developed methods and properties of anisotropic gold nanoparticles, in this review we ex‐amine the emerging literature that clearly indicates the often superior catalytic performance and amazing potential of these nanoparticles to transform the field of heterogeneous catalysis by gold by offering potentially higher catalytic performance, control over exposed active sites, robustness and tunability for thermal‐, electro‐and photocatalysis.

Homogeneous,heterogeneous,and enzyme catalysis in microfluidics droplets

Microfluidics has received extensive attention due to its ability to rapidly prepare a large number of microdroplets with controlled sizes and defined morphologies.In addition to having large surface areas and controllable confinement environments,these prepared microdroplets can be used as analytical detection devices to screen and optimize various kinetic parameters.This review summarizes recent advances in the microfluidic control of droplet-based catalytic reactions and discusses the role of these droplets in both homogeneous and heterogeneous catalyzes and in the catalysis of macromolecular biological enzymes in water-in-oil and oil-in-oil environments.Additionally,the existing problems and future development directions of droplets in catalysis are highlighted to promote the development of catalytic reactions in droplet media and provide guidance for the high-throughput screening of catalysts and the directed evolution of biological enzymes.

Advances in Application of Non-aqueous Phase Enzymatic Catalysis in Food Additive Production

Non-aqueous phase enzymatic catalysis technology has been widely ap- plied in the area of food additives production. This paper reviewed the types of re- action medium of non-aqueous phase enzymatic catalysis reaction, introduced the application of non-aqueous phase enzymatic catalysis technology in catalysis of L-ascorbic （isoascorbic） acid esters, short-chain acid esters, sugar esters, vitamin A esters, vi- tamin E esters, and other food additives, and finally predicted the prospects of non- aqueous phase enzymatic catalysis technology.

Recent advancement and future challenges of photothermal catalysis for VOCs elimination:From catalyst design to applications

Photothermal catalysis realizes the synergistic effect of solar energy and thermochemistry,which also has the potential to improve the reaction rate and optimize the selectivity.In this review,the research progress of photothermal catalytic removal of volatile organic compounds(VOCs)by nano-catalysts in recent years is systematically reviewed.First,the fundamentals of photothermal catalysis and the fabrication of catalysts are described,and the design strategy of optimizing photothermal catalysis performance is proposed.Second,the performance for VOC degradation with photothermal catalysis is evaluated and compared for the batch and continuous systems.Particularly,the catalytic mechanism of VOC oxidation is systematically introduced based on experimental and theoretical study.Finally,the future limitations and challenges have been discussed,and potential research directions and priorities are highlighted.A broad view of recent photothermal catalyst fabrication,applications,challenges,and prospects can be systemically provided by this review.

Heterogeneous catalysis under flow for the 21st century fine chemical industry

Due to metal leaching and poor catalyst stability, the chemical industry's fine chemical and pharmaceutical sectors have been historically reluctant to use supported transition metal catalysts to manufacture fine chemicals and active pharmaceutical ingredients. With the advent of new generation supported metal catalysts and flow chemistry, we argue in this study, this situation is poised to quickly change. Alongside heterogenized metal nanoparticles, both single-site molecular and single-atom catalyst will become ubiquitous. This study offers a critical outlook taking into account both technical and economic aspects.

Recent Progress on Biocatalysis and Biotransformations in Ionic Liquids

Ionic liquids have negligibly low vapor pressure, high stability and polarity. They are regarded as green solvents. Enzymes, especially lipases, as well as whole-cell of microbe, are catalytically active in ionic liquids or aqueous-ionic liquid biphasic systems. Up to date, there have been many reports on enzyme-exhibited features and enzyme-mediated reactions in ionic liquids. In many cases, remarkable results with respect to yield, catalytic activity, stability and (enantio-, regio-) selectivity were obtained in ionic liquids in comparison with those observed in conventional media. Accordingly, ionic liquids provide new possibilities for the application of new type of solvent in biocatalytic reactions.

Highlights of the major progress in single-atom catalysis in 2015 and 2016

The idea that single metal atoms dispersed on a solid support can act as an efficient heterogeneous catalyst was raised in2011when single Pt atoms on an FeOx surface were reported to be active for CO oxidation and preferential oxidation of CO in H2.The last six years have witnessed tremendous progress in the field of single‐atom catalysis.Here we introduce the major achievements on this topic in2015and2016.Some particular aspects of single‐atom catalysis are discussed in depth,including new approaches in single‐atom catalyst(SAC)synthesis,stable gold SACs for various reactions,the high selectivity of Pt and Pd SACs in hydrogenation,and the superior performance of non‐noble metal SACs in electrochemistry.These accomplishments will encourage more efforts by researchers to achieve the controllable fabrication of SACs and explore their potential applications.