Robust platinum-copper catalysts

摘要

Highly active and stable platinum-copper (PtCu) electrocatalysts are provided. The PtCu catalysts can be in the form of discrete, spherical PtCu nanoparticles that include a particle interior comprising platinum and copper, and a surface layer comprising platinum surrounding the particle interior. The PtCu nanoparticles can exhibit enhanced oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity as compared to other Pt-based catalysts for ORR. The PtCu nanoparticles are also active as electrocatalysts for the oxidation of small molecule organic compounds, including alcohols such as methanol and ethanol.

主权项

1. A population of platinum-copper (PtCu) nanoparticles comprising a
(a) a particle interior comprising platinum and copper; and (b) a surface layer comprising platinum surrounding the particle interior,
wherein the nanoparticles have an average particle size of from 60 nm to 500 nm, as determined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM).