Advances in CO2 activation by frustrated Lewis pairs: from stoichiometric to catalytic reactions

Abstract

The rise of CO₂ concentrations in the environment due to anthropogenic activities results in global warming and threatens the future of humanity and biodiversity. To address excessive CO₂ emissions and its effects on climate change, efforts towards CO₂ capture and conversion into value adduct products such as methane, methanol, acetic acid, and carbonates have grown. Frustrated Lewis pairs (FLPs) can activate small molecules, including CO₂ and convert it into value added products. This review covers recent progress and mechanistic insights into intra- and inter-molecular FLPs comprised of varying Lewis acids and bases (from groups 13, 14, 15 of the periodic table as well as transition metals) that activate CO₂ in stoichiometric and catalytic fashion towards reduced products.