Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 26, 2025

Synthesis of Platinum-nickel Nanowires and Optimization for Oxygen Reduction Performance
Published on: April 27, 2018
Role of atomicity in the oxygen reduction reaction activity of platinum sub nanometer clusters: A global optimization
Akhil S Nair1, Anakuthil Anoop2, Rajeev Ahuja3,4
1Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Indore, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India.
Abstract:
Metal nanoclusters are an important class of materials for catalytic applications. Sub nanometer clusters are relatively less explored for their catalytic activity on account of undercoordinated surface structure. Taking this into account, we studied platinum-based sub nanometer clusters for their catalytic activity for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). A comprehensive analysis with global optimization is carried out for structural prediction of the platinum clusters. The energetic and electronic properties of interactions of clusters with reaction intermediates are investigated. The role of structural sensitivity in the dynamics of clusters is unraveled, and unique intermediate specific interactions are identified. ORR energetics is examined, and exceptional activity for sub nanometer clusters are observed. An inverse size versus activity relationship is identified, challenging the conventional trends followed by larger nanoclusters. The principal role of atomicity in governing the catalytic activity of nanoclusters is illustrated. The structural norms governing the sub nanometer cluster activity are shown to be markedly different from larger nanoclusters.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Oxidative Cleavage of Alkenes: Ozonolysis
Ozone is a symmetrical bent molecule stabilized by a resonance structure.
Oxidation and Reduction of Organic Molecules
The removal of an electron from a molecule, results in a...
Redox Equilibria: Overview
Oxidation-Reduction Reactions
Phase I Oxidative Reactions: Overview
Oxidation of Alkenes: Syn Dihydroxylation with Osmium Tetraoxide

