Catalysis of C1 chemistry, especially for carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4), is critically important for the clean production of fuels and chemicals and future energy sustainability. However, due to the relatively inert nature and low reactivity of these C1 molecules, their activation and transformation into clean fuels and high value-added chemicals still remain formidable challenges. In this context, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), as relatively new emerging crystalline porous materials, have been shown to be promising heterogeneous catalysts or supports/precursors in the design and synthesis of various functional nanomaterials for addressing these challenges. In this review, the recent advances in MOF-based heterogeneous catalysts for transforming CO, CO2 and CH4 into high value-added chemicals are systematically reviewed. Emphasis is mainly placed on the catalytic reactivity, reaction mechanism and catalyst design. Additionally, major challenges and opportunities for MOF catalysts in the conversion of C1 chemistry are discussed to outline aspects for further development in this ongoing research field. It is anticipated that this review will provide a useful guide to chemists and material scientists attempting to design better MOF-based catalysts for the chemical conversion of C1 compounds.
