Abstract: Iron-based materials, as high-quality additives, can significantly enhance the efficiency and stability of anaerobic digestion processes. They are considered one of the most effective approaches for addressing operational instability and low methane production in anaerobic fermentation. This study reviews the impact of different iron-based materials on anaerobic digestion, exploring their enhancement and inhibitory effects across various stages of anaerobic processes, as well as their applications in trace element supplementation and pollutant removal. The findings highlight several challenges associated with the use of iron-based materials, including high cost, susceptibility to agglomeration, and low utilization and recovery rates. The study also discusses the synergistic mechanisms of combining iron-based materials with other materials to improve agglomeration effects and utilization rates. A development outlook is proposed, focusing on optimizing composite material structures to enhance utilization and recovery rates, providing theoretical support for the engineering application of iron-based materials in the enhancement of anaerobic fermentation.