Nanofiber-supported metal-based catalysts

Catalysis utilizing heterogeneous catalysts remains favoured in the chemical industry due to their ease of separation and recyclability compared to homogeneous catalysts. Electrospun nanofibers as catalyst support materials can enhance catalyst performance due to increased surface area-to-volume ratio. Recently, metal oxides and metallic nanoparticles immobilized onto electrospun nanofibers have displayed enhanced catalytic activities towards various reactions. Metal ion complexes supported on electrospun nanofibers, via coordination to the desired functional groups of polymer chains, have also been applied as heterogeneous catalysts in some organic syntheses. The nanofiber-based catalytic materials exhibited good catalytic activities for various reactions, as well as good recyclability and reusability. Concerns over the mechanical and chemical stability of electrospun nanofibers as well as the metal ion leaching sometimes occurring when employed under extreme conditions are also emphasized. This review covers progress in the fabrication and catalytic applications of various metal-based catalysts immobilized onto nanofibers. It will also highlight the challenges associated with the use of electrospun nanofibers in catalysis.