The substance migration in the synthesis of single-atom catalysts

Abstract

The substance migration is universal and crucial in the synthesis, which directly affect the existence form and the micro structure of active sites. Realizing the migration in the synthesis of single-atom catalysis (SACs) can help with not only increasing the metal loading but also manipulating electronic structures (coordination structure, long-range interaction et al.) of metal sites. This review summarized the thermodynamics and kinetic process involved in the synthesis of SAC to unveil the fundamental principles involve in the synthesis. In order to the better understanding the affection of migration, the migration of metal (including ions, atoms, and molecules) and nonmetal species are outlined, respectively. Moreover, we also proposed the research directions to guide the rational design of SACs in the future and deepen the fundamental understanding in the formation of catalysts.