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Building up libraries and production line for single atom catalysts with precursor-atomization strategy
Xiaohui He1, Hao Zhang1, Xingcong Zhang1
1Fine Chemical Industry Research Institute, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, 510275, Guangzhou, China.
Nature Communications
|September 29, 2022
Summary
A new precursor-atomization strategy enables scalable and versatile synthesis of single-atom catalysts (SACs). This method produces uniform catalysts, paving the way for industrial applications of these high-performance materials.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Catalysis
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Single-atom catalysts (SACs) exhibit excellent performance but face challenges in scalable and versatile preparation.
- Current methods often lack the flexibility and scalability required for widespread industrial adoption.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a versatile and scalable preparation strategy for single-atom catalysts (SACs).
- To demonstrate the adaptability of the method for various metal sites and supports, including SAC derivatives.
- To validate the scalability and uniformity of the synthesized SACs for practical applications.
Main Methods:
- A precursor-atomization strategy involving ultrasonic spraying of precursor solutions onto a support, followed by calcination.
- Synthesis of 19 different SACs and 3 SAC derivatives (single atom alloys, double atom catalysts, bi-metallic SACs).
- Scale-up using a custom production line achieving over 1 kg/day productivity.
Main Results:
- Successful synthesis of a diverse range of SACs and their derivatives.
- Demonstrated scalability with high productivity and consistent catalyst uniformity.
- Uniformity confirmed through identical characterization and catalytic performance in Suzuki-Miyaura cross-coupling reactions.
Conclusions:
- The precursor-atomization strategy offers a versatile and scalable route for SAC production.
- This method addresses key limitations in SAC synthesis, facilitating industrial application.
- The findings accelerate the transition of SACs from laboratory research to industrial use.

