Catalytic Materials by 3D Printing: A Mini Review

Catalytic processes are the dominant driving force in the chemical industry, proper design and fabrication of three-dimensional (3D) catalysts monoliths helps to keep the active species from scattering in the reaction flow, improve high mass loading, expose abundant active catalytic sites and even realize turbulent gas flow, greatly improving the catalytic performance. Three-dimensional printing technology, also known as additive manufacturing, provides free design and accurate fabrication of complex 3D structures in an efficient and economic way. This disruptive technology brings light to optimizing and promoting the development of existing catalysts. In this mini review, we firstly introduce various printing techniques which are applicable for fabricating catalysts. Then, the recent developments in 3D printing catalysts are scrutinized. Finally, challenges and possible research directions in this field are proposed, with the expectation of providing guidance for the promotion of 3D printed catalysts.