The
efficiency of a heterogeneous catalyst depends on the nature and the number of catalytically
active sites, but these are often inhomogeneous. One possible solution
is to construct site-isolated catalysts in which most, if not all,
of the sites are structurally uniform and well-defined. Metal phosphides
and sulfides form with distinct crystal structures based on a range
of component stoichiometries. Hence, incorporating active components
(i.e., the catalytically active metal) into this structure can regulate
geometric arrangements in a more reproducible manner where nonmetal
atoms act as spacers around metal atoms to create isolated sites.
A d-metal/p-block element strategy can provide several advantages
compared with other methods which generate discrete active sites,
including convenient synthesis, good process economics, and improved
catalyst stability. Interestingly, the metal atoms in these systems
still show typical catalyst traits associated with the metal which
opens up many possible catalytic applications. This Review presents
several interesting synthesis methods for preparing metal phosphides
and sulfides and aims to draw links between geometric structure/electronic
properties and enhanced catalytic performance (i.e., enhanced activity,
selectivity, and stability) for both petrochemical and fine chemical
processes. With precise knowledge of metal phosphide and sulfide structures/active
sites, we envision the development of practically useful d-metal/p-block
element catalysts from powder formulations to more industrial type
pellets. It should, however, be noted that these materials are not
without additional complexities. For example, metal phosphides and
sulfides can have complex surface chemistry and the operating environment
can induce structural evolution. These factors also need to be carefully
considered.