A research team led by Professor Chuncai Kong from Xi’an Jiaotong University has designed boron-bridge regulated asymmetric dual-atomic catalysts (NiFe-BNC) that deliver exceptional bifunctional activity for volatile organic compound (VOC) degradation and electrochemical CO 2 reduction. Published in Nano-Micro Letters , this work demonstrates a sustainable platform for converting waste gases into valuable resources through synergistic catalysis.
Why This Catalyst Matters
Design Strategy
The NiFe-BNC catalyst is derived from chitosan, a biomass-based substrate rich in amino and hydroxyl groups that stabilize dispersed metal atoms. Secondary calcination with boric acid introduces a “boron electron bridge” which modulates local coordination environments and electronic density. This design yields:
Mechanistic Insights
Performance Highlights
Future Outlook
This study establishes a blueprint for multifunctional catalyst design via electron-bridge regulation. By integrating biomass-derived supports, dual-metal active centers, and heteroatom doping, the NiFe-BNC system demonstrates scalable potential for both pollutant remediation and carbon recycling, advancing the vision of closed-loop carbon utilization.
Stay tuned for further developments from Professor Chuncai Kong and the collaborators as they continue to explore innovative materials for a greener tomorrow.
Nano-Micro Letters
Experimental study
B-Bridge Regulated Asymmetric Dual-Atomic Catalysts for Synergistically Enhanced Styrene Mineralization and CO2 Reduction
23-Jun-2025