Recent achievement of hydrogen-bonded organic framework-based single-atom catalysts and covalent organic framework-based dual-atom catalysts in photocatalytic applications

Artificial photosynthesis can convert solar energy into fuel and high-value chemicals holding the potential to generate sustainable energy and alleviate environmental crises. Developing an efficient photocatalyst is of key importance. Hydrogen-bonded organic frameworks (HOFs) and covalent organic frameworks (COFs), as new types of porous organic framework materials, have become ideal platforms for constructing single-atom catalysts (SACs) and dual-atom catalysts (DACs) owing to their unique structure properties. This review summarizes the latest advancements in HOF-based SACs and COF-based DACs. First, it focuses on the impact of single atoms on the matrix structure and the modulation of local electronic environment in HOF-based SACs. Then, it specifically introduces the interactions and synergistic effects between dual atoms in COF-based DACs. Furthermore, it summarizes the challenges, opportunities, and prospects of HOF-based SACs and COF-based DACs in the area of artificial photosynthesis, emphasizing rational design and in-depth mechanistic characterization for the development of efficient HOF-based SACs and COF-based DACs photocatalysts.