Recent advances in single-atom catalysts for electrocatalytic synthesis of hydrogen peroxide

Abstract

The electro-synthesis of hydrogen peroxide has attracted extensive research interest and is expected to replace conventional chemical processes as a mild and safe approach. Single-atom catalysts (SACs) have been applied in a wide variety of thermo- and electro-chemical reactions due to their high atom utilization and highly tunable electronic structure. Herein, an in-depth discussion on recent advances of SACs in the field of hydrogen peroxide electro-synthesis is summarized, specifically on the surface structure and electronic effects that enable high activity and selectivity of SACs. Different synthesis and modification strategies of SACs are discussed in detail, emphasizing the remarkable versatility of SACs utilization in this field. Finally, the opportunities and challenges of SACs for electrocatalytic synthesis of hydrogen peroxide are summarized in terms of rational design, controlled synthesis, and the stability of operation at high current densities of SACs to meet practical requirements.