Polymer-Functionalized Nanocatalysts: Engineering Interfaces and Microenvironments for Enhanced Catalysis

Polymer functionalization is rapidly emerging as a transformative strategy for enhancing nanocatalysts by reprogramming the catalytic interface, rather than simply modifying the active phase. This approach leverages the unique tunability of polymers through their chemistry, thickness, permeability, charge density, and ionic/electronic conductivity to stabilize nanophases, regulate local microenvironments, and manage mass transport. These properties significantly improve catalytic activity, selectivity, and long-term durability. This review provides an in-depth examination of key construction strategies for polymer-functionalized nanocatalysts, categorizing them into six primary platforms: neutral functional polymers, ionomers/polyelectrolytes, conductive polymers, crosslinked networks/hydrogels, hybrid polymers, and framework polymers. Additionally, we explore recent advances in electrocatalysis, photocatalysis, and thermocatalysis, addressing challenges such as the trade-off between protection and accessibility, polymer stability under extreme conditions, and the need for standardized reporting of polymer descriptors. By framing polymers as programmable interfacial materials, this review highlights their potential to unlock significant improvements in catalytic performance across various catalytic systems.