Research on biomass energy and CO2 conversion to methanol: a combination of conventional and bibliometric review analysis

Abstract The use of methanol as a chemical precursor and fuel additive has increased recently on a global scale. Hence, this study combined bibliometric and traditional review methods to assess the recent trends and evolution of methanol production, as well as its use. According to the study, producing methanol on a large scale from renewable sources is still hampered by the immature technologies used in its production. For instance, methanol production via the process of biochemical conversion still remains at the laboratory level even though it has proven to be a promising production option. Cu-based catalysts, especially Cu-Zn-based catalysts, were found to be the most frequently used catalysts for the hydrogenation of CO 2 to methanol due to their superior activity. The bibliometric study shows an annual growth rate of 3.63% in research within the last decade, with 867 authors involved. China leads globally in methanol production and consumption research. The highest collaboration occurred between China and the United States of America with a frequency of six. The study proposed future research directions, including the evaluation of the environmental impact of CO 2 conversion to methanol, focusing on the entire life cycle, comparing approaches, and streamlining procedures. It is also recommended to conduct research on flow chemistry and novel reactor designs that enhance mass and heat transfer in catalytic reactors. Graphical Abstract