Single-Atom and Dual-Atom Electrocatalysts Derived from Metal Organic Frameworks: Current Progress and Perspectives

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Catalysis

Background:

• Single-atom catalysts (SACs) offer unique electronic properties and maximum atom utilization.
• Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) provide a stable platform for atomically dispersed metal nodes, ideal for SACs and dual-atom catalysts (DACs).
• MOFs allow tuning of atomic distances and metal loading for optimized catalyst performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review MOF-derived SACs and DACs for various electrocatalytic applications.
• To discuss synthesis strategies, atomic structures, and electrocatalytic performances.
• To provide insights into catalytic mechanisms, challenges, and future perspectives.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of MOF-based atomic electrocatalysts.
• Analysis of synthesis routes for SACs and DACs from MOFs.
• Discussion of structure-property relationships and catalytic mechanisms.

Main Results:

• MOFs are effective precursors for SACs and DACs due to their inherent structure and composition.
• These atomic catalysts show promise in oxygen reduction, oxygen evolution, hydrogen evolution, CO2 reduction, and nitrogen reduction reactions.
• Tuning MOF ligands and metal centers influences atomic dispersion and catalytic activity.

Conclusions:

• MOF-derived SACs and DACs represent a significant advancement in atomic electrocatalysis.
• Understanding synthesis, structure, and mechanisms is crucial for further development.
• Future research should focus on optimizing catalyst design and exploring new applications.