Suppressing Jahn-Teller distortion of MnO₂ via B-Ni dual single-atoms integration for methane catalytic combustion

Precisely managing electron transfer pathways throughout the catalytic reaction is paramount for bolstering both the efficacy and endurance of catalysts, offering a pivotal solution to addressing concerns surrounding host structure destabilization and cycling life degradation. This paper describes the integration of B-Ni dual single-atoms within MnO₂ channels to serve as an electronic reservoir to direct the electron transfer route during methane catalytic combustion. Comprehensive analysis discovers that B atoms weaken the interaction between O and Mn atoms by forming bonds with lattice oxygen atoms. Meanwhile, Ni atoms facilitate electron transfer to achieve the heightened activity of MnO₂. The B-Ni dual-sites instead of Mn (IV) could accommodate excess electrons generated during the reaction to inhibit the formation of high spin Mn (III) species, thereby hindering the Jahn-Teller distortion and maintaining the catalyst stability. This work demonstrates an effective modification strategy to substantially prolong the service life of MnO₂-based materials.