Recent advances and strategies in the stabilization of single-atom catalysts for electrochemical applications

Owing to the rapidly increasing consumption of fossil fuels, finding clean and reliable new energy sources is of the utmost importance. Thus, developing highly efficient and low-cost catalysts for electrochemical reactions in energy conversion devices is crucial. Single-atom catalysts (SACs) with maximum metal atom utilization efficiency and superior catalytic performance have attracted significant attention, especially for electrochemical reactions. However, because of the highly unsaturated coordination environment, the stability of SACs can be a challenge for practical applications. In this review, we will summarize the strategies to increase the stability of SACs and synthesizing stable SACs, as well as the application of SACs in electrochemical reactions. Finally, we offer a perspective on the development of advanced SACs through rational design and a deeper understanding of SACs with the help of in situ or operando techniques in electrochemical reactions.