Structurally Defined Low-Coordination Single-Atom Strategy for CO 2 Photoconversion to Formic Acid

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Authors: Jiajing Zhang, Yi Zhang, Mei Zheng, Yao Wu, Jun Xiong, Longcheng Zhang, Pengfei Song, Pengfei Song, Pin Song, Pin Song, Moran Li, Wei Jiang
+2 more Jun Di, Zhichuan J. Xu
Cited by: 6
References: 39

Abstract

A central challenge in single-atom catalysis lies in the precise construction of structurally well-defined local coordination environments at isolated metal sites while retaining low coordination numbers. Here, we present an edge-bonding strategy that confines isolated metal atoms to well-defined edge sites of covalent triazine frameworks, enabling deterministic construction of structurally defined low-coordination environments. With Ni as a model, this approach yields single-atom sites with a well-defined Ni–N 1 –C 6 coordination motif and allows precise control over their spatial distribution. The strategy is readily extendable to other metals, affording single-atom catalysts with structurally defined and highly accessible low-coordination environments. Such geometrically low-coordination sites optimize photogenerated carrier separation and transport while selectively stabilizing the key *OCHO intermediate in the CO 2 reduction pathway, thereby directing the reaction toward HCOOH with 98.5% selectivity. This work establishes a principle for achieving low-coordination microenvironments at single-atom sites via macroscopic regulation of support structures, providing a rational strategy for single-atom catalyst design.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Carbon dioxide utilization in catalysis CO2 Reduction Techniques and Catalysts Covalent Organic Framework Applications

Publication details

Journal / source
Journal of the American Chemical Society
Publisher
American Chemical Society (ACS)
Volume
148
Issue
27
Pages
28498–28506
Publication date
3 July 2026
Language
EN