Atomic-level insights into single Pt atom catalysts on CeO2 support

Precious Pt metals deposited on reducible CeO2 oxide have been widely used in exhaust gas treatment. However, the high cost of Pt metals is the main barrier that prevents from applying the Pt metals. Therefore, a lot of efforts have been dedicated to reducing the Pt size as small as possible, aiming at maximizing Pt metal utilization efficiency. The smallest ultimate size that Pt metal can be deposited on CeO2 as single atom structures. Furthermore, the supported single Pt atom catalysts enhance catalytic performance and selectivity compared to Pt cluster or Pt particle counterparts. However, the electronic structures of single Pt atom catalysts at the atomic level are a challenge for the experimentalist, leading to a lack of important information in using these catalysts. Here, we aim to figure out the nature of the high thermal stability of single Pt atom catalysts on CeO2 support using density theory functional and compared to experimental data from previous studies. This study will provide useful information on single Pt atom catalysts on CeO2 support aiming at boosting synthesis and applications applying CeO2-supported Pt.