Zn–Y dual atomic site catalyst featuring metal–metal interactions as a nanozyme with peroxidase-like activity

Abstract

The insufficient catalytic activity of single-atom catalysts for reactions involving multiple intermediates fuels the ongoing research on dual atomic site catalysts (DACs). Herein, we construct a Zn–Y dual single-atom catalyst featuring a ZnY–N₆ configuration (ZnY–DACs/NC) with Zn–Y interactions by using a host–guest strategy, which was confirmed by material characterization results. Electron spinning resonance and density-functional theory investigation reveal that ZnY–DACs/NC can generate hydroxyl radicals on the adjacent Zn and Y atoms with an optimal distance under H₂O₂, which indexing synergistic effects between the adjacent Zn and Y atoms. The colorimetric sensing strategy for hydroquinone well evaluates the outstanding peroxidase-like activity of Zn–Y–DACs/NC. The successful construction of dual single-atom catalysts containing rare-earth metals with synergistic effects showed a promising future for their application in catalysis.