###### Abstract  
Molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) are synthetic polymers designed to exhibit selective recognition and binding capabilities toward target molecules and have been widely combined with advanced ceramic-based materials toward better performance in many catalytic applications of interest and beyond. What sets MIPs apart is their molecularly imprinted cavities, which are formed during polymerization in the presence of a template molecule. Upon template removal, these cavities retain the shape, size, and chemical functionality of the template molecule, allowing for highly specific recognition and binding of target molecules. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in leveraging these molecularly imprinted cavities not only for molecular recognition and sensing but also as catalytic sites and supports. Complementary to experimental studies, density functional theory (DFT) calculations are increasingly used to elucidate the molecular interactions, catalytic mechanisms, and optimize the design of MIP-ceramic catalysts. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of research on advanced ceramic-based catalysts supported by MIPs for environmental applications. Additionally, the review will discuss challenges and future directions in the field, focusing on enhancing the catalytic efficiency, stability, and scalability of MIP-based ceramic catalysts. By exploring these aspects, this review seeks to illustrate the promising role of MIP-modified ceramic materials in advancing the field of catalysis and catalytic supports. monomers; advanced ceramic materials; MIP; density functional theory; environmental chemistry +
Footnote †: journal: J. of Acramics  
0000-000-0000-0000-0000-00000-00000-00000-00000-0000-00000-0000-00000-00000-00000-00000-00000-00000-00000-00000-00000-00000-00000-00000-00000-000000-000000-000000-000000-000000-000000-000000-000000-000000-0000000-000000000000000000000000000000000000000000 efficient and sustainable chemical processes, yielding both economic and environmental benefits [1; 2]. Figure 1B presents an illustrative diagram highlighting these diverse applications, demonstrating how catalysis interacts with various areas of study, driving significant advancements in each. As we know, catalysis can be classified into several types, including homogeneous, heterogeneous, and enzymatic (see Figure 1A). Owing to the widespread application of heterogeneous catalysis in industry, this review will focus primarily on this type of catalyst. In this type of catalysis, the catalyst exists in a different phase than the reactants; a typical example involves a solid catalyst interacting with liquid- or gas-phase reactants, facilitating its separation and reuse [1; 2]. The performance of heterogeneous catalysts often depends on the nature of the catalytic support, which provides a surface for the active catalytic sites, thereby influencing activity, selectivity, and stability [1; 2; 3; 4; 5; 6; 7]. Figure 1C shows in simplified form a generic example of a supported heterogeneous catalyst. Functioning as a structural base for active catalyst dispersion, catalytic ceramic supports are essential for improving catalyst efficiency and durability, making them essential for industrial applications where high catalytic activity and longevity are required [3]. These ceramic materials, commonly porous substances such as alumina, silica, or zeolites, are designed to maximize surface area and optimize the distribution of active sites and accessibility to reactants [4; 5]. Hence, catalytic ceramic supports are indispensable in heterogeneous catalysis for boosting catalyst performance [6; 7]. In the pursuit of sustainable technologies, the design of efficient and selective catalysts is paramount.