Single-atom catalysts based on polarization switching of ferroelectric In2Se3 for N2 reduction

Abstract

The polarization switching plays a crucial role in controlling the final products in the catalytic process. The effect of polarization orientation on nitrogen reduction was investigated by anchoring transition metal atoms to form active centers on ferroelectric material In₂Se₃. During the polarization switching process, the difference in surface electrostatic potential leads to a redistribution of electronic states. This affects the interaction strength between the adsorbed small molecules and the catalyst substrate, thereby altering the reaction barrier. In addition, the surface states must be considered to prevent the adsorption of other small molecules (such as *O, *OH, and *H). Furthermore, the V@?-In₂Se₃ possesses excellent catalytic properties, high electrochemical and thermodynamic stability, which facilitates the catalytic process. Machine learning also helps us further explore the underlying mechanisms. The systematic investigation provides novel insights into the design and application of two-dimensional switchable ferroelectric catalysts for various chemical processes.