Two‐Dimensional Materials‐Based Heterogeneous Thermo‐Catalysis: Results, Challenges, and Outlook

After the synthesis of two‐dimensional (2D) graphene through mechanical exfoliation in 2004, 2D nanomaterials have emerged as efficient catalysts for many types of reactions, including heterogeneous catalysis, due to their distinct physicochemical and electronic properties. This review highlights recent progress in the application of 2D materials for selected heterogeneous thermo‐catalytic reactions, with an emphasis on their role as active catalysts or catalyst supports. The catalytic behavior of 2D materials, either as a catalyst or support, in various heterogeneous catalytic reactions, such as Knoevenagel condensation, Suzuki coupling, oxidative dehydrogenation, hydrogenation of nitroarenes, and oxidative desulfurization, is discussed. Particular attention is given to catalyst design strategies involving 2D materials functionalized with metal‐free active sites, as well as hybrid systems incorporating noble and non‐noble metals, although our primary focus is on metal‐free and structurally tunable 2D catalytic platforms. We conclude our discussion with a perspective on present challenges and future recommendations in this fast‐evolving field based on recent state‐of‐the‐art developments. In addition, we provide a critical perspective on current challenges and suggest future directions for the development of cost‐effective, selective, and durable 2D‐based catalysts.