Carbon-based double-metal-site catalysts: advances in synthesis and energy applications

Dual-metal site catalysts embedded in a carbon matrix (referred to as DMSCs) are gaining significant interest in sustainable energy research. Their distinct coordination settings, electronic configurations, efficient atom usage, and enhanced catalytic performance position them at the cutting edge of this field. The purpose of this article is to summarise the latest key findings on carbon-based diatomic catalysts for synthetic methods and energy applications. First, the classification of carbon-based diatomic catalysts into two categories (homonuclear (A₂) and heteronuclear (AB)) is presented, and their synthesis strategies are described. Following this, we provide a synopsis of the latest developments in carbon-based dual-metal catalysts for applications related to energy, encompassing processes such as hydrogen production, oxygen generation, oxygen consumption, carbon dioxide conversion, and nitrogen fixation. To sum up, future prospects, potential challenges, and opportunities for the advancement of carbon-supported bimetallic catalysts are explored.