Layered Double Hydroxides as Building Blocks for Precise Catalysis

Abstract

Abstract Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) are structurally tunable, 2D materials that serve as versatile precursors for the design of heterogeneous catalysts. Their unique lamellar architecture, topotactic transformation ability, and compositional flexibility enable the fabrication of monometallic, bimetallic, and intermetallic catalysts with atomically controlled active sites. These LDH‐derived catalysts feature high metal dispersion, strong metal–support interactions, and defect‐rich interfaces, which are key attributes for precise catalysis. Recent advances have demonstrated their broad applicability in electrocatalysis (e.g., oxygen evolution and CO 2 reduction), selective hydrogenation, direct and oxidative dehydrogenation, and syngas conversion. Across these reactions, LDH‐derived systems offer enhanced activity, selectivity, and stability by tailoring active site geometry, electronic structure, and interfacial properties. This review summarizes the advances in synthesis, structure–function relationships, and catalytic applications of LDH‐based catalysts. Despite significant progress, challenges remain in understanding transformation mechanisms, capturing dynamic active sites under working conditions, and establishing predictive design rules. Future efforts combining operando spectroscopy, theory, and data‐driven approaches are expected to unlock the full potential of LDH‐derived materials for precise catalysis in sustainable energy and chemical transformations.