Work

Electrothermal catalysis: paradigm shift from monolithic Joule heating to interparticle electrical promotion

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Conventional thermal catalysis, dependent on carbon-intensive fossil fuels, faces pressing sustainability challenges. As an alternative relying on renewable electricity, electrothermal catalysis utilizing catalyst Joule heating enables decarbonized chemical processes and is advancing rapidly under carbon-neutrality mandates. Here, we clarify the fundamental characteristics and scope of electrothermal catalysis, especially highlighting advances in our own works. Accordingly, a paradigm shift from monolithic Joule heating to interparticle electrical promotion is proposed. Monolithic catalyst architectures employ the Joule heating of monolithic supports for compact and efficient heating, whereas interparticle counterparts leverage both Joule heating and electrical promotion between conductive catalyst particles, not only substantially enhancing the intrinsic activity of catalysts, but also drastically reducing energy costs and carbon footprints for the sustainable electrification of chemical processes. Ultimately, the perspectives and challenges of interparticle electrical promotion are highlighted and analysed to advance this transformative shift toward a viable industrial process.

Source: National Science Review

DOI: 10.1093/nsr/nwag167

Authors: Xueyi Mei, Yexin Zhang, Zhaoliang Zhang, Jian Zhang

Institutions: Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo Institute of Industrial Technology, University of Jinan, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences

Language: English

Topic: Catalytic Processes in Materials Science

Subfield: Materials Chemistry

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Affordable and clean energy, Climate action

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,000