Metal-organic frameworks based single-atom catalysts for advanced fuel cells and rechargeable batteries

The next-generation energy storage systems such as fuel cells, metal-air batteries, and alkali metal (Li, Na)-chalcogen (S, Se) batteries have received increasing attention owing to their high energy density and low cost. However, one of the main obstacles of these systems is the poor reaction kinetics in the involved chemical reactions. Therefore, it is essential to incorporate suitable and efficient catalysts into the cell. These years, single-atom catalysts (SACs) are emerging as a frontier in catalysis due to their max-imum atom efficiency and unique reaction selectivity. For SACs fabrication, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have been confirmed as promising templates or precursors due to their high metal loadings, structural adjustability, porosity, and tailorable catalytic site. In this review, we summarize effective strategies for fabricating SACs by MOFs with corresponding advanced characterization techniques and illustrate the key role of MOFs-based SACs in these batteries by explaining their reaction mechanisms and challenges. Finally, current applications, prospects, and opportunities for MOFs-based SACs in energy storage systems are discussed.(c) 2023 Science Press and Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

Next-generation energy storage systems such as fuel cells, metal-air batteries, and alkali metal (Li, Na)-chalcogen (S, Se) batteries have gained attention for their high energy density and low cost. Incorporating efficient catalysts into these systems is crucial due to poor reaction kinetics. Single-atom catalysts (SACs) using metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) as templates have emerged as promising solutions, offering high metal loadings, adjustable structures, porosity, and tailored catalytic sites. This review summarizes strategies for fabricating MOFs-based SACs, their role in these batteries, and discusses their applications and prospects in energy storage systems.