Precise synthesis of dual atom sites for electrocatalysis

Single atom sites are widely applied in various electrocatalytic fields due to high atom utilization, mass activity, and selectivity. They are limited in catalyzing multi-electron reactions due to their intrinsic mono-metal center feature. Dual atom sites (DASs) as promising candidate have received enormous attentions because adjacent active sites can accelerate their catalytic performance via synergistic effect. Herein, the fundamental understandings and intrinsic mechanism underlying DASs and corresponding electrocatalytic applications are systemically summarized. Different synergy dual sites are presented to disclose the structure–performance relationship with engineering the well-defined DASs on the basis of theoretical principle. An overview of the electrocatalytic applications is showed, including oxygen reduction reaction, hydrogen evolution reaction, oxygen evolution reaction, carbon dioxide reduction reaction, and nitrogen reduction reaction. Finally, a conclusion and future prospective are provided to reveal the current challenges for rational designing, synthesizing, and modulating the advanced DASs toward electrocatalytic reactions.