Photocatalytic and electrocatalytic conversion of CO₂ into valuable chemicals using layered double hydroxide-based materials: A review

CO₂ emissions are the main driver of global warming, which in turn, could lead to serious consequences, requiring effective management. Among the available CO₂ capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technologies, photocatalytic and electrocatalytic conversion of CO₂ to valuable chemicals are very attractive. However, the viable photocatalytic/electrocatalytic conversion of CO₂ requires the development of effective and affordable catalysts. In recent years, layered double hydroxides (LDHs) have accrued considerable attention as propitious materials for photocatalytic and electrocatalytic conversion of CO₂ due to their attractive characteristics such as durability, high porosity, tunability, distinctive morphologies, and readily modifiable array of anions and cations. Accordingly, this article is devoted to reviewing the recent progress and development of utilizing LDH-based materials for photocatalytic and electrocatalytic conversion of CO₂. Although there are some reviews on CO₂ capture and conversion using various materials, there is still a notable lack of thorough reviews focusing on the utilization of LDH-based materials for photocatalytic/electrocatalytic conversion of CO₂, highlighting the novelty of this review article. This article is structured into two main sections; beginning with concise insights into general mechanisms of photocatalytic and electrocatalytic conversion of CO₂ and the different types of methods for synthesizing pristine and functionalized LDH-based catalysts. The latter, and most comprehensive, section delves into discussion on recent studies related to deploying pristine and functionalized LDH-based materials for photocatalytic and electrocatalytic conversion of CO₂. Finally, future research directions and perspectives are elucidated to propel the ongoing advancement of LDHs-derived catalysts to address the remaining challenges and obstacles.