Atomically dispersed metal catalysts for methane dry reforming

Abstract

Methane dry reforming to produce synthesis gas is an effective way to solve the energy and environmental problems. However, the problems of carbon deposition and metal sintering at high temperatures have always constrained its development. In recent years, atomically dispersed metals (ADMs) have become a hot research topic due to their maximized atom utilization and excellent carbon deposition resistance. Research shows that although ADM catalysts have better resistance to carbon deposition they also face more serious metal deposition problems. This article categorizes ADMs into single-atom catalysts (SACs), dual-atom catalysts (DACs), and multi-atom cluster catalysts (MACs), and provides a detailed introduction to the sintering mechanism and carbon deposition mechanism of catalysts, as well as the anti-carbon deposition advantages of ADMs. Then, the strategies and stability mechanisms for maintaining ADMs at high temperature, such as strong metal–support interactions (SMSI), confinement effects, and alloying, are described in detail. Finally, the challenges and opportunities for the development of ADMs in DRM are proposed.