Use of rare earth elements in single-atom site catalysis: A critical review — Commemorating the 100th anniversary of the birth of Academician Guangxian Xu

Abstract

Rare earth metals are strategic resources with potential applications in optics, metallurgy and catalysis. In recent years, single-atom site catalysts (SASCs) have attracted increasing attention owing to their 100% atom efficiency and unique catalytic performances. Over the past decade, rare earth elements, including rare earth metals and their oxides, have shown great potential in SASCs. However, systematic analyses of data are still handful. In this mini-review, the use of rare earth metals and their oxides in SASCs was summarized and the results are discussed. A particular focus was paid to the synthetic strategies, characterization of rare earth-containing SASCs, and applications as catalysis supports, promoters and active sites. Current issues faced by rare-earth metals and their oxides in SASCs, as well as future prospects were also provided.