Defect-Rich Metal Nanocrystals in Catalysis

Metal nanocrystals with high concentrations of surface defects are well known to material scientists, but have been given less attention by the catalysis community. In this concept, we advocate that engineered metal nanocrystals with rich defects could be a new platform for exploration as highly active heterocatalysts. Metal nanocrystals with rich defects are analyzed in detail to illustrate the structural features, including twin boundaries (TBs) and grain boundaries (GBs). We also discuss the recent advances in synthetic methods for making metal nanocrystals with rich TBs/GBs to provide inspiration for a further rational synthesis. Typical catalytic measurements are highlighted to stress the positive correlation between the concentration of surface defects and the catalytic performances of metal nanocrystals.