Surface reaction-induced LaBO3 nano-islands confine dispersed Ni species for highly efficient NH3 decomposition

NH 3 decomposition is receiving increased attention for on-site CO x -free H 2 generation. Unfortunately, the harsh reaction conditions often cause sintering of active metals. Here we report a simple method to achieve well Ni dispersion by nano-structuring the BN support with La species. The surface reaction-induced LaBO 3 nano-islands on BN support have a strong affinity for Ni atoms, which can capture and confine Ni species to yield a large population of well dispersed Ni clusters and nanoparticles . The Ni species selectively anchored on LaBO 3 islands expose more active sites and boost desorption of N 2 and H 2 , exhibiting superior activity and stability for NH 3 decomposition. In addition, it is revealed that the Ni dispersion is sensitive to the change of the support surface structure. These findings highlight the important role of support structure in determining the nature of the metal phase and provide guidance for designing catalysts with controlled catalytic structure and reactivity. • A simple method was developed to achieve well Ni dispersion by nano-structuring the BN support with La species. • The surface reaction-induced LaBO 3 nano-islands on BN support can capture and confine Ni species. • The Ni species selectively anchored on LaBO 3 islands expose more active sites for NH 3 decomposition. • The Ni dispersion is sensitive to the change of the support surface structure.