Single-Atom Catalysts-Enabled Reductive Upgrading of CO2

Single-atom catalysts (SACs) have attracted extensive attention since their emergence. During the single-atomic catalytic process, the active center exists in the form of atomical monodispersion, with nearly 100 % utilization of metal atoms. Uniform and atomically dispersed catalytic centers give SACs pronounced reaction activity and chemical selectivity. Here, we review the development processes, synthetic strategies, characterization methods, and applications of SACs in CO2 reductive upgrading. Also, a comparison of SACs with conventional heterogeneous catalysts in catalytic CO2 reduction is made and discussed. SACs have built a bridge between homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis and have the advantages of both, showing a broad prospect in the field of catalysis.

Automated summary

Single-atom catalysts (SACs) have attracted extensive attention due to their nearly 100% utilization of metal atoms and pronounced reaction activity in the form of atomical monodispersion. In CO2 reductive upgrading, SACs show unique advantages and have bridged the gap between homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis effectively. This makes SACs a promising prospect in the field of catalysis.