Synthesis of highly active and stable Au-PtCu core-shell nanoparticles for oxygen reduction reaction

Au-PtCu core-shell nanoparticles were successfully synthesized via galvanic replacement of Cu by Pt on hollow Au nano-spheres. Characterizations of the nanoparticles were conducted by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and electrochemical measurements. Results indicate 2-2.5 times higher specific activity and mass activity of the Au-PtCu catalysts than commercial Pt black and Pt/C in oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), measured in a rotating disk electrode system. Besides, thinner PtCu coating (25 nm thick, deposition time of 20 min) on the hollow Au nano-spheres demonstrated a pronounced CO oxidation peak shift (by 0.13 V) and long-term durability probably due to the unique core-shell structure and strong electronic coupling between the Au core and the PtCu shell.