Deciphering the issue of single-atom catalyst stability

In the pursuit to synthesize high-loading and effective singleatom catalysts (SACs), the strong likelihood of aggregation due to high surface free energy cannot be ignored. Catalyst stability encompasses several factors, such as resistance to deactivation importance for SACs is the ability to maintain single-atom configuration, either during synthesis or reaction conditions. Evaluating SAC stability is equally as important as catalyst performance but has not received the same level of scrutiny. In this review, we discuss key factors affecting SAC stability, such as reducing environments and high temperatures. We highlight the relationship between environment and aggregation, emphasizing the complexities involving metal, support, and reaction conditions and their influence on catalytic performance.

Automated summary

In the pursuit of synthesizing high-loading and effective single-atom catalysts (SACs), the potential aggregation due to high surface free energy cannot be ignored. Catalyst stability is crucial for SACs, as they need to maintain their single-atom configuration during synthesis and reaction conditions. Evaluating SAC stability is equally important as catalyst performance, but it has not received the same level of attention. This review discusses the key factors affecting SAC stability, such as reducing environments and high temperatures, and emphasizes the intricate relationship between the environment and aggregation, including the influence of metal, support, and reaction conditions on catalytic performance.