Research progress of catalysts for synthesis of low-carbon alcohols from synthesis gas

In recent years, the application value of low-carbon alcohols (C1–C6 alcohols) in the fuel, chemical, environmental protection and other fields has become increasingly prominent. Catalytic conversion of synthesis gas to low-carbon alcohol is one of the important ways to realize the industrial production of low-carbon alcohol. Lack of high-performance catalysts is the main reason that restricts the industrial development of producing low-carbon alcohols from synthesis gas. The construction of a dual active-center catalyst with high activity and stability, and the study of its function and catalytic mechanism have become significantly important. In this paper, the characteristics of the reaction process of syngas to low-carbon alcohols, and the catalytic mechanism and preparation methods of different catalyst systems were reviewed, which provide the basis for further research on high performance catalysts.