Geometric and electronic perspectives on dual-atom catalysts for advanced oxidation processes

With the escalating global challenges of energy scarcity and environmental pollution, the development of efficient and sustainable catalytic technologies has become imperative. Dual-atom catalysts (DACs) have garnered considerable interest, particularly in various catalytic processes, demonstrating exceptional promise in enhancing reaction efficiency and selectivity. Unlike prior reviews that primarily emphasized a specific or single reaction process, this review provides a systematic and comprehensive analysis of DACs across diverse oxidation chemistry, including ozone oxidation, Fenton-like reactions, photo/electro/piezo-catalysis, and enzyme-mimetic oxidation. It begins with a concise overview of the discovery, development, and evolution of DACs, together with an in-depth investigation of diverse synthesis strategies and state-of-the-art characterization techniques. Moreover, the remarkable improvement in the performance of DACs in catalytic processes is discussed on the basis of how their geometric microstructure and electronic configuration, including charge transfer, coordination environment, and spin state, influence catalytic kinetics and thermodynamics, exploring the relationships between the structural geometry, electronic interactions, and catalysis mechanisms of DACs. By integrating these multidimensional insights, this review expands conventional paradigms in the development of DACs and identifies innovative pathways for linking their microstructure and catalysis mechanism. Finally, we emphasize critical research gaps and emerging opportunities for DACs that warrant further exploration and attention. This review would provide valuable guidance and foundation in the rapidly evolving field of DACs.