Perspectives on the application of layered MPX3 materials (M: Transition metal, X: Chalcogen) in confined catalysis and energy applications

The concept of confined catalysis, where reactions occur within nanoscale environments that modulate reaction energetics, has emerged as a powerful paradigm for designing advanced catalytic systems. Inspired by the efficiency of enzyme active pockets through metal-enzyme cascade reactions, confined architectures provide unique opportunities to enhance activity and selectivity across a wide range of chemical processes. Here, layered transition metal phosphorus trichalcogenides (MPX₃, where M: transition metal and X: chalcogen) have attracted increased attention as versatile hosts for confined catalysis, where van der Waals gaps create natural nanoreactors stabilizing intermediates and hosting guest species. By coupling intrinsic catalytic activity with engineered confinement, MPX₃ materials offer new pathways toward efficient hydrogen storage, stable high-capacity batteries, and robust energy conversion systems. This perspective highlights the emerging role of MPX₃ compounds in confined catalysis and outlines the challenges and opportunities for their application in sustainable energy technologies.