Harnessing lanthanide-based nanostructured catalysts for energy conversion and chemical transformations

Abstract

Significant progress in lanthanide-based nanostructured catalysts (LBNCs) has ushered in a new era of catalysis by improving the efficiency of chemical transformation and energy conversion processes. This review highlights the adaptability and wide range of applications of LBNCs by exploring important areas including fatty acid ethyl ester synthesis, CO oxidation, soot oxidation, and photodegradation of phenolic compounds. Continued research is needed on improving synthesis techniques to achieve more control over nanostructural characteristics and deepen our understanding of the links between structure and activity in order to fully realize their potential. The performance of these catalysts should be optimized, and this requires developments in theoretical models and characterization methods. It additionally opens the door for creative solutions in sustainable energy and chemical production to investigate the potential of LBNCs in emerging fields such as biocatalysis, photocatalysis, and electrocatalysis. LBNCs play a greater part in assisting the industrial sector make the switch to greener and more efficient processes when they are combined with renewable energy sources like solar and hydrogen. Therefore, thorough future research in this area is essential to maximizing the revolutionary potential of LBNCs for worldwide breakthroughs in technology and the environment. It is essential to broaden the range of usages for LBNCs in growing domains including biocatalysis, electrocatalysis, photocatalysis, etc. This requires the creation of new catalysts and the study of novel applications. © 2024 Elsevier B.V.