Single-Atom Pt Stabilized on One-Dimensional Nanostructure Support via Carbon Nitride/SnO₂ Heterojunction Trapping

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Catalysis
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Single-atom catalysts (SACs) offer superior reactivity and selectivity.
• Developing structurally versatile supports for SACs is crucial for enhancing catalytic activity.
• Controlling single-atom dispersion on complex nanostructures remains a challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize a platinum single-atom catalyst (Pt SAC) on a controllable one-dimensional (1D) metal oxide nano-heterostructure support.
• To investigate the catalytic performance and sensing capabilities of the fabricated Pt SAC.
• To demonstrate the stability and sinter resistance of the single atoms immobilized at heterojunctions.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a carbon nitride/SnO2 heterostructure support.
• Trapping single platinum atoms at the heterojunctions of the support.
• Characterization using X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) and High-Angle Annular Dark-Field Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (HAADF-STEM).
• Gas sensing performance evaluation for formaldehyde detection.
• Ex situ Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) for stability analysis.

Main Results:

• Achieved homogeneous atomic dispersion of Pt species at carbon nitride/SnO2 nanograins.
• The Pt SAC on the 1D nano-heterostructure support exhibited an ultrahigh specific surface area (54.29 m2 g-1).
• Demonstrated maximized catalytic active sites and enhanced catalytic activity due to the heterojunction.
• Exhibited high sensitivity and selectivity for formaldehyde gas detection.
• Confirmed excellent thermal stability and sinter resistance of the immobilized Pt single atoms.

Conclusions:

• The developed Pt SAC system on a 1D nano-heterostructure support effectively maximizes active sites and enhances catalytic performance.
• The heterojunction immobilization strategy provides superior stability and sinter resistance for single atoms.
• This Pt SAC demonstrates significant potential for highly sensitive and selective formaldehyde gas sensing applications.