Ligand‐Free Yolk‐Shell Nanoparticles: Synthesis and Catalytic Applications

Abstract

Ligand-Free yolk-shell nanoparticles (LFYSNs) consist of ligand-free core (nanoparticle) enclosed in a hollow nanocavity of a porous shell have been attracted great interest owing to their unique nanoarchitecture features, enchanting physicochemical properties and extensive potential applications. LFYSNs are considered as a unique category of conventional yolk-shell nanoparticles (YSNs). YSNs are usually consist of organic-capped core (nanoparticle) and the presence of capping ligands on the surface of metal core may show deleterious effects in catalytic applications. Here, a comprehensive overview on the recent progress of LFYSNs synthetic strategies and catalytic applications are discussed. The fabrication methods for LFYSNs are mainly focused on a ''ship-in-a-bottle/pre-shell'' approach and subdivided into three categories, including volume confined, photochemical and seedless/colloidal methods. The catalytic applications of LFYSNs including chemical and photo catalysis, and electrocatalysis are discussed in detail. Moreover, the superlative catalytic activity of LFYSNs is highlighted. Finally, perspectives on future research direction and development of LFYSNs are discussed briefly.

The Critical Impacts of Ligands on Heterogeneous Nanocatalysis: A Review

“…Noting that the synthetic process of solid metal NP formation from liquid metal precursors is very important and complicated, various research groups have reviewed the details regarding colloidal synthesis. − However, if we consider only the final product (namely, ligand-capped NPs) and combine different physical characterization methods, we can understand how the ligand is coordinated on the surfaces of the metal NPs. Generally, the ligands mentioned above are coordinated on the metal NP surfaces by ligating atoms (such as N, O, P, S, etc.)…”

Research progress of yolk–shell structured nanoparticles and their application in catalysis

“…Due to the unique properties of YSNs, such as low density, movable core, void space between the core and shell, and their readily tailorability and functionality in both the cores and shells, YSNs materials have been widely used as catalysts in many reactions. [43][44][45][46][47][48][49][50][51][52][53][54][55] In most of the cases, the movable core of YSNs oen serve as catalyst, while the outer shell can not only control the diffusion of the reactants and products, but also provide a connement effect which prevent particles agglomeration and improve the catalytic performance.…”

Hydrous ruthenium oxide triggers template-free and spontaneous growth of metal nanostructures

“…[1][2][3][4][5][6] Such nanomaterials exist in numerous designs, including core-shell, yolk-shell, Janus, dots-on-nanorods, dots-in-nanotubes, nanobranched, and heterodimer. [7][8][9][10][11][12][13] Among various chemical compositions, metal oxide supported multicomponent nanomaterials have gained immense importance due to their enhanced and unanticipated catalytic activities originating from multiple phenomena, encompassing strong metal support interactions, modied electronic band structures, the availability of plasmonic hot electrons, and improved durability. [14][15][16][17][18] Both physical and chemical methods are used to synthesize metal oxide-supported noble metals.…”