Application of Single-Atom Synergistic Catalysts in Multifield Coupling Reactions

Abstract Single-atom synergistic catalysts (SASCs), as a significant advancement in single-atom catalysis, combine the advantages of maximum atom utilization efficiency, well-defined active sites, and engineerable synergistic effects. By precisely coupling single-atom metal centers with adjacent synergistic sites, the integrated composite active interfaces can be constructed to provide a novel platform for the precise regulation of complex multistep reactions. This review systematically elaborates on the applications of SASCs in multifield-coupled catalytic reactions. To start with, we classify and analyze the core types based on the intrinsic differences of their synergistic sites, including supports, nonmetallic elements, other metal atoms, clusters, and nanoparticles. Subsequently, we focus on their multifield- coupled catalytic reaction applications, such as electrothermal coupling, photothermal coupling, and photoelectro coupling, revealing the universal principles by which SASCs reduce reaction energy barriers and regulate pathway selectivity through spatial division of labor and synergy effects. Finally, how SASCs are designed and synergistically regulated for diverse multifield-coupled catalytic applications is systematically reviewed and prospected. This review stimulates novel thinking in harnessing single-atom synergy for efficient multifield-coupled processes, accelerating the development of next-generation technologies for sustainable chemistry.