Recent advances on dynamic phase reconstruction of Fe-based catalysts for catalytic CO2 hydrogenation to long chain α-olefins

Carbon dioxide (CO2) hydrogenation to produce high value-added chemicals is one of the effective ways to utilize CO2 resources. Although significant progress has been made in the CO2 hydrogenation to long chain α-olefins over Fe-based catalysts, precise regulation of the dynamic phase transformation and surface reconstruction during the reaction remains a challenge. In this review, research progress related to the active phases in the CO2 hydrogenation to long chain α-olefins is reviewed. The reaction mechanism and the dominant deactivation mechanism of the catalyst, the stability of the active phases, and the relationship between the active phases and the chain growth capacity are summarized and analyzed in detail. Meanwhile, the current problems to be solved and the possible solutions in the future are put forward. This review aims to provide a theoretical basis for the development and design of efficient and stable Fe-based catalysts. [Display omitted] •Recent advances on dynamic phase reconstruction of Fe-based catalysts are reviewed.•The mechanism of CO2 hydrogenation to olefins over Fe-based catalyst is clarified.•Relationship between catalyst physicochemical properties and FeCx are analyzed.•Effect of catalyst electronic structure change on the FeCx phases are elucidated.