Advances in multi-atom catalysts for electrocatalytic applications

Multi-atom catalysts (MACs) can break the limitation of single-atom catalysts (SACs) by introducing metal clusters, presenting a more diversified way in the composition, structure and performance of multi-atom sites, and utilizing the synergistic effect of multi atoms and metal-support interactions to jointly regulate the electronic structure of active sites, which endow them with advantageous electrocatalytic performance and unique reaction mechanism and expand new opportunities for the electrocatalytic field. Here, we summarize synthesis strategies, in situ structural characterization and the features reflecting structure-activity relationships of MACs with respect to composition and configuration, electron distribution as well as multiple functional effects. Then, the design principles of high-performance MACs are accentuated, involving multi-atom sites, coordination environments, interfacial defects, reaction media, and special thoughts including bio-inspired design and computing-learning-prediction. Subsequently, the applications in energy storage and conversion technologies are provided. Lastly, we conclude with some personal thoughts and perspectives on the growth and development of MACs in their nascent state.