Designing the electronic and geometric structures of single-atom and nanocluster catalysts

Abstract

This article highlights some recent advances in the electronic and geometric structures of single-atom and nanocluster catalysts, which play an inevitably important role in modern catalysis. The combined use of...

Nanostructure engineering of ruthenium-modified electrocatalysts for efficient electrocatalytic water splitting

“…Regulating the geometric structure of metal catalytic centers can achieve charge redistribution between a single atom and carbon supporter, nally inuencing the catalytic activity. [87][88][89][90] Normally, the stable M-N 4 species with saturated coordination structure is a common model for most SACs. However, many studies conrm that the microstructure regulation of single metal centers, such as heterogeneous atom substitution or an oversaturated coordination structure, shows a signicant inuence on the catalytic performance of SACs.…”

Single-atom-based catalysts for photoelectrocatalysis: challenges and opportunities

“…For these key steps in heterocatalysis, the unique geometric and electronic properties of SACs can play to their advantages. 27 SACs provide a powerful solution to achieve desirable chemical reactions with high activity and selectivity. This section will discuss the merits of SACs demonstrated in heterocatalysis, which can potentially take effect in photoelectrocatalysis.…”

Synergistic enhancement of photocatalytic hydrogen production in TiO2 nanosheets through light-induced defect formation and Pt single atoms

“…[15][16][17][18] By downsizing metal nanoparticles into the SAs, Pt utilization efficiency is signicantly enhanced without compromising photocatalytic efficiency. [19][20][21][22][23][24][25][26] Several strategies have been developed for decorating single-atom catalysts (SACs) onto TiO 2 nanostructures, resulting in improved catalytic efficacy. 27 However, a notable challenge arises when utilizing Pt SAs is their thermodynamic instability due to high surface energies, which predisposes them to agglomeration during reaction cycles.…”