Unveil the Potential of MOF-based Single-Atom Photocatalyst for Production of Clean Fuel and Valuable Chemical

Abstract

Harnessing solar energy through photocatalysis has excellent potential for powering sustainable chemical production, supporting the United Nations' environmental goals. Single-atoms (SAs) dispersed on catalyst surfaces are gaining attention for their highly active and durable nature. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) can provide enough reactive sites to sustain selectivity and durability over time because of their tunable channels and functional groups. Owing to their organized structures， MOFs provide the ideal platforms for securing individual atoms and promoting solar-driven reactions. Few reviews have, however, reflected the possibility of combining MOFs and SAs to produce potent photocatalysts that may produce clean fuels and valuable materials. This review provides a general overview of methods for combining MOFs and SAs to generate photocatalysts. Challenges facing these MOF-based single-atom systems are also critically examined. Their future development is discussed as continued refinement helps more fully tap their advantages for boosting photocatalytic performances - turning sunlight into chemicals in a manner that supports sustainable development. Insights gained here could illuminate pathways toward realizing the profound potential of MOF-based single-atom photocatalysts to empower production driven by renewable solar energy.