Evaluating the electro-sensing behaviors of single-atom catalysts based on mechanistic insights

Abstract Single-atom catalysts (SACs) have been widely applied as electrocatalysts due to their excellent catalytic ability, selectivity, and stability, which are also key aspects considered for electro-sensing interfaces. Typical SACs are catalytic single atoms dispersed over oxide-, sulfide-, or carbon-based material supports. In this review, the electrocatalytic mechanisms of SACs are briefly summarized. SACs can increase the reactivity and modulate the reaction pathway via redox mediating, adsorbing to the preferred reactant/intermediate, and cooperating with other active sites either from the substrate or from a nearby heteroatom. Based on the mechanistic insights of SACs, this review aims to provide some inspirations for future applications of SACs in the design of efficient electro-sensing interfaces.