Exploring Durable Single-Atom Catalysts for Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells

Exploring low-cost, highly active, and durable oxygen reductioncatalysts is essential for the widespread use of proton exchange membrane fuelcells. Fe-N-C catalysts with nitrogen-coordinated single-atom (Fe-Nx) activesites are the most promising candidates due to their highest activity in acidmedia among platinum-group-metal-free catalysts. However, the application ofFe-N-C catalysts in realistic fuel cells is still hindered by the conundrum ofinsufficient stability. This review focuses on the understanding of thestructure-stability relationship of Fe-N-C catalysts, which provides valuableguidance for the rational material design toward improved stability. The mostsignificant achievements in recent years are the discovery of several site-specificdegradation mechanisms and the identification of intrinsically stable activesites. The development of Fe-free single-atom catalysts is also discussed as analternative solution

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This review explores the structure-stability relationship of Fe-N-C catalysts, providing valuable guidance for improved stability. Recent achievements include the discovery of several site-specific degradation mechanisms and identification of intrinsically stable active sites, and the discussion of Fe-free single-atom catalysts as an alternative solution.