Redesign chemical processes to substitute the use of fossil fuels: A viewpoint of the implications on catalysis

摘要: Abstract The substitution of fossil fuels requires redesigning chemical processes and this has major implications on catalysis. In viewpoint, after analyzing the motivations why transition to an almost fossil-free future will likely occur faster than often indicated, it is remarked presence a science technology gap pass from today catalysis that dominant in scenario indicated with term "reactive" It defines operating highly reactive species generated either i) by application potential electrical current or ii) light absorption creation charge separation, iii) activation reactant molecules when generating non-thermal plasma. different conceptual approach "thermal" catalysis, where heat energy form provided overcome barrier. Reactive not just extension use (thermal catalysis), but redesign materials related concepts, including terms fundamental aspects understand improve their behavior. case study solar ammonia (direct synthesis N2, i.e., nitrogen reduction reaction - NRR) was used illustrate need change some open questions solve.