Atomically dispersed catalysts: for the efficient and stable industrial electrosynthesis of H2O2

Abstract

Hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), a green chemical vital in healthcare and environmental applications, faces production limitations due to the energy-intensive and polluting anthraquinone process. The two-electron oxygen reduction reaction (2e⁻ ORR) offers a sustainable synthesis route, yet requires efficient catalysts for industrialization. Atomically dispersed catalysts (ADCs), with maximized atomic utilization and tunable active sites, have emerged as pivotal materials for 2e⁻ ORR-driven H₂O₂ production. However, challenges such as agglomeration-induced deactivation hinder their industrial deployment. This review systematically analyzes atomic-scale catalytic mechanisms and advances in ADC design strategies, including coordination engineering, synergistic site engineering, and carrier optimization. Cutting-edge characterization techniques—such as spherical aberration electron microscopy for tracking the structural evolution of ADCs, in situ spectroscopy for monitoring intermediates, and DFT modeling—reveal critical structure–activity relationships. Furthermore, electrosynthesized H₂O₂ demonstrates transformative potential in downstream applications, such as Electro-Fenton reactions for pollutant degradation and plastic waste valorization. By integrating mechanistic insights with practical engineering approaches, this work provides a roadmap for overcoming the stability issues of ADCs and scaling up H₂O₂ production. It bridges fundamental research and industrial implementation, offering strategic guidance for advancing green chemical synthesis and circular economy technologies.