Innovative Catalysts and Materials for Small Molecule Activation in Energy Applications

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 in the conversion of small molecules into high-value chemical feedstocks and fuels. Despite significant progress, challenges remain in optimizing these processes for practical applications, necessitating further investigation into efficient and scalable solutions.

This Research Topic aims to consolidate the latest advancements and insights in the dynamic field of small molecule activation for energy applications. It seeks to bridge the gap between fundamental research and practical implementation, fostering an interdisciplinary approach to address pressing energy challenges. The primary objectives include elucidating the intricate aspects of small molecule activation, demonstrating their integration into energy conversion devices and processes, and accelerating the translation of scientific breakthroughs into tangible technological solutions. Specific questions to be addressed include the identification of novel catalysts, the optimization of reaction pathways, and the development of advanced materials for enhanced molecule manipulation.

To gather further insights into the boundaries of small molecule activation for energy applications, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

- Exploration of novel catalysts and catalytic mechanisms for efficient small molecule activation
- Investigation of electrochemical and photochemical methods for small molecule conversion in energy systems
- Development of advanced materials for enhanced small molecule adsorption, transport, and manipulation
- Strategies for generating, storing, and utilizing hydrogen as a clean energy carrier
- Utilization of carbon dioxide as a feedstock for valuable chemicals and fuels through innovative catalytic processes
- Advancements in nitrogen activation for ammonia synthesis and other energy-relevant applications
- Applications of small molecule activation in integrated energy systems, such as fuel cells, electrolyzers, and renewable energy storage
- 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.