Applications of X‑ray Absorption Fine Structure Spectroscopy in the Photocatalytic Conversion of Small Molecules

The conversion of small molecules (H2, CO, CH4, NH3, etc.) in energy-related systems offers enormous potential in the conversion and storage of renewable energy. X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy (XAFS) is indispensable in probing the geometric and electronic microenvironments of catalysts, providing the necessary assistance to reveal reaction mechanisms and active sites at the atomic level. Our summary highlights the recent advancements in utilizing XAFS in the photocatalytic conversion of small molecules, including but not limited to water splitting of H2 production, CO2 reduction, and N2 fixation. Furthermore, we discuss future prospects for the development of XAFS-based combined techniques to guide their utilization.