The applications of single‐atom alloys in electrocatalysis: Progress and challenges
Yumin Da,
Rui Jiang,
Zhangliu Tian,
Xiaopeng Han,
Wei Chen,
Wenbin Hu
Affiliations
Yumin Da
Joint School of National University of Singapore and Tianjin University International Campus of Tianjin University Fuzhou China
Rui Jiang
Tianjin Key Laboratory of Composite and Functional Materials, Key Laboratory of Advanced Ceramics and Machining Technology (Ministry of Education), School of Materials Science and Engineering Tianjin University Tianjin China
Zhangliu Tian
Department of Chemistry National University of Singapore Singapore Singapore
Xiaopeng Han
Tianjin Key Laboratory of Composite and Functional Materials, Key Laboratory of Advanced Ceramics and Machining Technology (Ministry of Education), School of Materials Science and Engineering Tianjin University Tianjin China
Wei Chen
Joint School of National University of Singapore and Tianjin University International Campus of Tianjin University Fuzhou China
Wenbin Hu
Joint School of National University of Singapore and Tianjin University International Campus of Tianjin University Fuzhou China
Abstract The development of cost‐effective and highly efficient electrocatalysts to accelerate distinct electrochemical reactions is essential to help the industry to achieve a low‐carbon footprint. Single‐atom alloys (SAAs) with the characteristics of unique electronic structures, well‐defined active sites, and maximum atom utilization demonstrate promising potential to replace traditional noble metal catalysts. SAAs are expected to tailor the adsorption properties of reaction species, thus promoting electrocatalytic behaviors. Herein, representative synthetic strategies including wet chemistry, galvanic replacement, dealloying, and atomic layer deposition are introduced, followed by a summary of applications of SAAs in hydrogen evolution reaction, oxygen evolution reaction, oxygen reduction reaction, carbon dioxide reduction reaction, and ethanol electro‐oxidation to provide an in‐depth understanding of the structure–activity relationship. Moreover, the challenges and perspectives in this emerging field of SAAs are discussed.
