Quantum heterostructured catalytic materials for selective multi-carbon green products

Abstract

Quantum heterostructures have emerged as next-generation catalytic architectures capable of driving highly selective multi-carbon products for sustainable energy advancement. The quantum-confined electronic structures, ultrahigh surface-to-volume ratios, and interfacial charge dynamics enable efficient activation and transformation of inert carbon feedstocks, such as CO2, into value-added C2+ molecules. Recent breakthroughs in compositional modulation, defect engineering, and controlled lattice coupling have unlocked new pathways for tunable binding energetics, suppressed parasitic reactions, and enhanced multi-electron transfer kinetics. This review systematically addresses advances in 2D/3D-driven catalytic platforms, including TMDs, MXenes, MOFs, COFs, g-C3N4, and emerging layered materials, highlighting engineered hybrid interfaces that integrate the chemical selectivity of 2D surfaces with the structural robustness of 3D supports. Mechanistic insights from electro-, photo-, and bio-assisted catalytic systems are analysed with an emphasis on C-C coupling efficiency, intermediate stabilization, and product branching rules. Critical bottlenecks encompassing durability, systemlevel integration, theoretical uncertainties, and scalable manufacturing are assessed, alongside strategic directions for industrial-grade carbon valorisation. This article aims to chart a forward-looking roadmap toward converting anthropogenic carbon into sustainable fuels and chemicals through atomically precise catalytic design.