Catalytic properties of peroxidase mimicking nanozymes

Herein is the first attempt to critically review the catalytic properties of peroxidase mimicking nanozymes. For this aim the main factors affecting nanoparticles activity are discussed, and the catalytic properties are normalized allowing true comparison of different nanomaterials. The highest catalytic activities in hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) reduction have been recorded for nitrogen-coordinated iron atoms (FeN₄, FeN₅). However, the main disadvantages of metal/metal oxide as well as "single atom" nanozymes are their additional activities in oxygen reduction and H₂O₂ dismutation, impairing their application abilities. Nanoparticles catalytically synthesized from the most advantageous electrocatalyst (Prussian Blue) display enzymatic selectivity in addition to the highest catalytic activity. This may indicate simultaneous electron donation to H₂O₂ from different iron atoms. Accordingly, perspective synthesis of "single atom" nanozymes can be carried out considering bi-metallic (Fe–Fe like) structures in addition to the presently synthesized ones.
The bibliography includes 121 references.