The rapid depletion of fossil fuels and the urgent need for sustainable energy solutions have sparked a profound scientific interest in activating small molecules. CO2, CO, O2, N2, H2 and CH4, for example, hold immense potential as versatile resources for clean energy generation, conversion, and storage. The intricate manipulation of these molecules through catalysis and advanced materials holds the key to unlocking a new era of energy innovation. Through the convergence of chemistry, materials science, and engineering, researchers worldwide have been diligently exploring novel catalysts, reaction pathways, and materials to achieve breakthroughs on the conversion of small molecules into high-value chemical feedstocks and fuels.
The special issue on "Small Molecule Activation for Energy Applications" aims to consolidate the latest advancements and insights in this dynamic field. It seeks to bridge the gap between fundamental research and practical implementation, fostering an interdisciplinary approach to address pressing energy challenges. This issue will spotlight cutting-edge research that not only elucidates the intricate aspects of small molecule activation but also demonstrates their integration into energy conversion devices and processes. By facilitating cross-disciplinary collaboration and knowledge exchange, the issue strives to accelerate the translation of scientific breakthroughs into tangible technological solutions.
This issue addresses topics such as
(1) the exploration of novel catalysts and catalytic mechanisms for efficient small molecule activation,
(2) investigation of electrochemical and photochemical methods for small molecule conversion in energy systems,
(3) development of advanced materials for enhanced small molecule adsorption, transport, and manipulation,
(4) strategies for generating, storing, and utilizing hydrogen as a clean energy carrier,
(5) utilization of carbon dioxide as a feedstock for valuable chemicals and fuels through innovative catalytic processes,
(6) advancements in nitrogen activation for ammonia synthesis and other energy-relevant applications,
(7) applications of small molecule activation in integrated energy systems, such as fuel cells, electrolyzers, and renewable energy storage, and
(8) computational studies and theoretical models to unravel reaction mechanisms and guide experimental design.
Authors are welcome to submit original research, reviews and perspective articles.
Keywords:
Small molecule activation, Energy conversion, Artificial photosynthesis, Water splitting, CO2 reduction, Nitrogen activation, C-H bond activation
Important Note:
All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.
The rapid depletion of fossil fuels and the urgent need for sustainable energy solutions have sparked a profound scientific interest in activating small molecules. CO2, CO, O2, N2, H2 and CH4, for example, hold immense potential as versatile resources for clean energy generation, conversion, and storage. The intricate manipulation of these molecules through catalysis and advanced materials holds the key to unlocking a new era of energy innovation. Through the convergence of chemistry, materials science, and engineering, researchers worldwide have been diligently exploring novel catalysts, reaction pathways, and materials to achieve breakthroughs on the conversion of small molecules into high-value chemical feedstocks and fuels.
The special issue on "Small Molecule Activation for Energy Applications" aims to consolidate the latest advancements and insights in this dynamic field. It seeks to bridge the gap between fundamental research and practical implementation, fostering an interdisciplinary approach to address pressing energy challenges. This issue will spotlight cutting-edge research that not only elucidates the intricate aspects of small molecule activation but also demonstrates their integration into energy conversion devices and processes. By facilitating cross-disciplinary collaboration and knowledge exchange, the issue strives to accelerate the translation of scientific breakthroughs into tangible technological solutions.
This issue addresses topics such as
(1) the exploration of novel catalysts and catalytic mechanisms for efficient small molecule activation,
(2) investigation of electrochemical and photochemical methods for small molecule conversion in energy systems,
(3) development of advanced materials for enhanced small molecule adsorption, transport, and manipulation,
(4) strategies for generating, storing, and utilizing hydrogen as a clean energy carrier,
(5) utilization of carbon dioxide as a feedstock for valuable chemicals and fuels through innovative catalytic processes,
(6) advancements in nitrogen activation for ammonia synthesis and other energy-relevant applications,
(7) applications of small molecule activation in integrated energy systems, such as fuel cells, electrolyzers, and renewable energy storage, and
(8) computational studies and theoretical models to unravel reaction mechanisms and guide experimental design.
Authors are welcome to submit original research, reviews and perspective articles.
Keywords:
Small molecule activation, Energy conversion, Artificial photosynthesis, Water splitting, CO2 reduction, Nitrogen activation, C-H bond activation
Important Note:
All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.