The precise regulation of noble metal-loaded layered double hydroxides nanocatalysts: synthesis and structure-activity relationship

The deliberate and precise fabrication of supported catalysts with well-defined structures has been a long-standing pursuit. Among the large number of supports for anchoring noble metal species, layered double hydroxides (LDHs) stand out as a class of ideal supports for dispersing noble metal species due to their uniform distribution of metal sites and charge centers. However, a prerequisite for the investigation of noble metals-loaded LDHs is the construction of well-defined active sites and precisely controlled sizes of noble metal species on LDH surfaces. Based on research advances made over the past decade, we provide a detailed discussion on the fine regulation of noble metal species, including single atoms, nanoclusters, nanoparticles, and multi-site catalysts on LDHs. Furthermore, we focus on uncovering three critical aspects of noble metal-loaded LDHs: the precise location, the atomic configurations, and the interaction with the LDHs. Building upon these well-defined structures, we further clarify the structure-activity relationships of the developed materials in reactions such as hydrazine decomposition, biomass conversion, C–H bond activation, and water splitting, etc. Finally, the challenges and future directions are outlined to offer valuable insights for advancing high-activity noble metal-loaded LDHs.