Spin Catalysis: Concept, Characterizations, and Advances in 2D Catalytic Materials

High Resolution Image Download MS PowerPoint Slide The activation and conversion of small molecules such as oxygen (O 2 ) and nitrogen (N 2 ) are involved extensively in various critical energy-related catalytic processes. In these reactions, overcoming the molecular activation energy barrier is essential, but consideration must also be given to the spin state transition between reactants and products. For instance, the classic four-electron oxygen evolution reaction (OER) involves a spin state transition in its first step. The matching characteristics of catalytic sites with these spin state transitions critically influence the adsorption and formation of reactants and intermediates. Therefore, understanding the spin catalytic mechanisms in O 2 - and N 2 -involving reactions, constructing spin catalysts with precisely modulated spin states, and meanwhile developing characterization techniques to analyze catalytic spin states are becoming increasingly significant for gaining insights into precision catalysis. In this review, we elucidate the mechanisms of spin catalysis and their application in O 2 /N 2 -involving reactions. We further summarize methods for regulating spin polarization and characterizing spin states. Subsequently, we discussed the advantages of two-dimensional (2D) catalysts specialized for spin catalysis. Finally, we outline the prospects and challenges in developing spin catalysts, aiming to guide insights into the spin catalytic mechanisms and applications.