Despite extensive efforts devoted to the synthesis of Pt-Co bimetallic nanocrystals for fuel cell and related applications, it remains a challenge to simultaneously control atomic arrangements in the bulk and on the surface. In a recent attempt, we developed a synthesis of Pt-Co@Pt octahedral nanocrystals that feature an intermetallic, face-centered tetragonal Pt-Co core and an ultrathin Pt shell, together with the dominance of {111} facets on the surface. When evaluated as a catalyst toward the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), the nanocrystals delivered mass and specific activities that were enhanced by 13 and 30 times, respectively, relative to those of a commercial Pt/C catalyst. More significantly, the mass activity of the nanocrystals only dropped 21% after undergoing 30,000 cycles of accelerated durability test, promising an outstanding catalyst with optimal performance for ORR and related reactions.

Pt-Co intermetallic nanocrystals with enhanced activity and durability toward oxygen reduction

ACS Spring 2022

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