The crucial role of catalyst wettability for hydrogenation of biomass and carbon dioxide over heterogeneous catalysts

Wettability regulation is an effective strategy to modulate the active sites of catalysts and provides a powerful method to create efficient catalysts for a wide range of reactions. Hydrophilic and hydrophobic microenvironments on a catalyst surface create reaction platforms. One key target is the conversion of biomass and carbon dioxide into various platform chemicals, which in turn can be converted into compounds for chemical and material industries. The strategic development of efficient wetting catalysts is critical for practical applications in biomass and carbon dioxide hydrogenation. Here, we bridge current understanding between catalyst wettability and catalytic hydrogenation activity. The advantages of wettability control we discuss include regulation of molecular diffusion, interface effects, and protection of the catalytic sites. Finally, the potential applications of surface wettability modification in future catalysts are explored.