Optimized Carbon Coupling for Enhanced Ethylene Production via a Unique Single-Atom-Substrate Synergy Mechanism within Photocatalytic Processes

The utilization of solar-driven technologies for the direct conversion of methanol (CH₃OH) into two or multi-carbon compounds through controlled carbon-carbon (C-C) coupling is an appealing yet challenging objective. In this study, we successfully demonstrate the photocatalytic CH₃OH coupling to ethylene (C₂H₄), a valuable chemical raw material, by employing a carbon nitride-based catalyst. Specifically, we modify the layered polymer carbon nitride (PCN) photocatalyst through the incorporation of Au single atoms (Au₁/PCN) using a chemical-scissors method. The synergistic effect between the PCN substrate and the Au single atoms reduces the potential barrier associated with C-C coupling, thereby enhancing the efficiency of CH₃OH reforming to C₂H₄. This investigation not only reveals a novel pathway for C₂H₄ production via CH₃OH reforming but also provides fresh insights into the possibilities of C-C coupling.