Facile synthesis and characterization of PtCu core-shell and alloy nanoparticles

A facile technique for the synthesis of PtCu core-shell nanoparticles (Pt@Cu and Cu@Pt) of size 10-15 nm by successive and co-reduction method is reported in this study. Optical studies such as UV-Vis and PL emission confirmed the formation of core-shell nanoparticles. The influence of particle segregation on alloy formation was studied. XRD studies revealed that the alloy formed after annealing of the core-shell nanoparticles was PtCu and PtCu3 and their average particle size was calculated to be 18 and 20 nm, respectively. The electrochemical studies of the core-shell and alloy nanoparticles revealed the segregation pattern and their stability.