Metal–organic framework-derived single-atom catalysts for electrocatalytic energy conversion applications

Abstract

Single-atom catalysts (SACs) derived from metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are revolutionizing electrocatalytic energy conversion. This review explores their synthesis, characterization, and application, emphasizing their role in advancing sustainable energy technologies. SACs offer unprecedented efficiency and selectivity by dispersing individual metal atoms on a support material. This maximizes active site utilization and minimizes material usage compared to traditional catalysts. Various synthesis strategies, such as bimetallic MOF pyrolysis and ligand-coordinated anchoring, enable precise control over SACs properties. Characterization techniques like electron microscopy and spectroscopy reveal SACs structures and properties. Electron microscopy visualizes SACs morphology, while spectroscopy provides insights into metal atom coordination. In practical applications, MOF-supported SACs excel in proton-exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), direct formic acid fuel cells (DFAFCs), and Zn–air batteries (ZABs). They catalyze essential reactions, such as oxygen reduction and hydrogen oxidation, enhancing PEMFC efficiency and durability. In ZABs, SACs improve oxygen reduction and evolution reactions, boosting battery performance and stability. This review underscores the potential of MOF-derived SACs in sustainable energy conversion. By detailing synthesis, characterization, and applications, it contributes to the development of efficient catalysts for renewable energy technologies.