Enabling Selective Tandem Reactions via Catalyst Architecture Engineering

Tandem catalysis capable of completing multistep reactions in a single pot or step is an effective strategy to develop cost-effective and environmentally benign chemical processes. A unique challenge in the selectivity control of tandem reactions is the coexistence of reactants, intermediates, and products from all constituent steps in the same reaction medium, causing side reactions. Thus, distinct catalyst design principles are needed. In this review, we introduce four design concepts for tandem catalysts, comprising engineering of the spatial distribution of catalytic sites, the molecular proximity of sites, the nature of sites, and the size of the pores in which sites reside. Current challenges and opportunities for future research in tandem catalysis are also discussed.