Tuning the local coordination environment of single-atom catalysts for enhanced electrocatalytic activity

The local coordination environment (LCE) plays a pivotal role in determining catalyst performance. By controlling the LCE of catalysts, the catalytic activity, selectivity, and stability of catalysts can be effectively increased. This influence is particularly pronounced in the realm of electrocatalysis, especially for single-atom catalysts (SACs). However, it is still a challenge to properly regulate the LCE and improve the activity and stability of SACs during catalysis. According to the differences in electron distribution and interaction between atoms in different types of chemical bonds, the LCE can be adjusted by experimental and simulated design. In this review, we discuss the characterization of LCE in SACs, explore the impact of adjusting LCE in high-performance electrocatalysts and summarize the challenges and opportunities of SACs in the future. We aim for this review to provide new insights into further research on SACs.