Single-atom
catalysts (SACs) are regarded as promising non-noble-metal
alternatives for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in proton exchange
membrane fuel cells due to their high atom utilization efficiency
and excellent catalytic properties. However, the insufficient long-term
stability issues of SACs under the working conditions seriously hinder
their practical application. In this perspective, the recent progress
of SACs with optimized ORR catalytic activity is first reviewed. Then,
the possible degradation mechanisms of SACs in the ORR process and
effective strategies for improving their ORR durability are summarized.
Finally, some challenges and opportunities are proposed to develop
stable single-atom-based ORR electrocatalysts in the future.