Consequences of the co-existence of single-atom and nanoparticle catalysts

Abstract

Single-atom catalysts (SACs) have emerged as promising candidates for electrochemical conversion and storage applications due to their efficient atomic utilization and unique structure, wherein metal atoms are uniformly dispersed and anchored on a support material. This arrangement allows SACs to possess a high density of active sites, maximizing their exposure to reactants and consequently improving reaction rates and selectivity. In light of the growing global demand for renewable and sustainable energy sources, extensive research has been dedicated to designing and fabricating well-defined SAC-based electrocatalysts with optimized electronic structures and diverse compositions over the past decade. Given their exceptional activity and selectivity, particularly for small molecules or key intermediate conversions, the synergistic combination of SACs with nanoparticles (NPs) holds great potential for significantly enhancing performance in complex catalytic processes. In this mini-review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the various possibilities for the co-existence of SACs and nanoparticles, as well as the synthesis and characterization techniques employed in their preparation. Subsequently, we focus on the potential consequences of this co-existence, which has not been extensively explored in the literature, which can lead to improved selectivity towards desire products, thereby boosting the niche applications of these systems. We conclude by emphasizing the major challenges that need to be addressed and highlighting the emerging opportunities in the field of SAC-nanoparticle co-existence systems. By understanding and addressing these challenges, researchers can further advance the development and utilization of hybrid catalyst systems, thereby paving the way for the next generation of efficient and selective catalytic processes.