Small-Scale Big Science: From Nano- to Atomically Dispersed Catalytic Materials

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Catalysis
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• The performance of materials, especially catalytic properties, is strongly size-dependent, changing significantly from bulk to nanoscale and atomic levels.
• A deep understanding of the relationship between material structure at the nanoscale and macroscopic properties is essential for scientific advancement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent progress in multiscale materials (nanoscale, sub-nano, clusters, atomic scale) for catalytic reactions.
• To comprehensively discuss the catalytic reactions on microstructures and the link between small-scale structures and macroscopic properties.
• To systematically reveal the unique catalytic performances of materials across different dimensions.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on multiscale materials in catalysis.
• Analysis of structure-property relationships from nanoscale to atomic scale.
• Discussion of catalytic mechanisms and performance across various material dimensions.

Main Results:

• Materials exhibit unique catalytic effects at different scales, from nanoscale to atomically dispersed.
• Understanding the interplay between small structures and macroproperties is key to optimizing catalytic activity.
• Multiscale materials offer significant potential for catalysis, energy, and environmental applications.

Conclusions:

• The review highlights the critical role of material size in determining catalytic performance.
• It emphasizes the importance of rationally tuning and characterizing material size for targeted applications.
• Future opportunities and challenges in applying multiscale materials for catalysis and sustainability are outlined.