The Catalytic Nature of Chevrel Phases (MxMo6S8) in Review

Abstract Chevrel Phases, MxMo6S8, are a class of heterogenous catalysts comprised of abundant materials that have been reported to out-perform conventional MoS2 catalysts in several reactions. Historically, lengthy and energy-intensive syntheses have restricted their use as catalysts, however recent developments in synthesis techniques, driven by energy storage research, have lessened these constraints. The catalytic community has been slow to adopt these advances, yet Chevrel Phases remain excellent candidates for fundamental catalytic reactions due to their unique combination of low-coordinate molybdenum atoms; tuneable oxidation state; Mo6-cluster electron-reservoirs; thermal stability, and dual Lewis acidity & basicity. This review summarises five decades of catalytic reports, identifies trends and gaps within the literature, and provides perspective on future directions for the catalytic application of Chevrel Phases. In doing so, we hope to bring these promising materials to the attention of a wider audience to facilitate improvements in energy & chemical conversion processes.