Metal-Support Interactions in PdCu/NiZnP Nanohybrids Enhance Alcohol Electrooxidation

Developing high-performance catalysts for the alcohol electrooxidation reaction is of significant importance for the practical application of direct fuel cells. Herein, a supported catalyst consisting of well-dispersive PdCu nanoparticles (NPs) and ultrathin NiZnP nanosheets (NSs) is synthesized. The high-surface-area NiZnP NSs provide a platform for good dispersion of PdCu NPs, resulting in stable catalysts with a large number of exposed surface atoms. Compared with PdCu NPs and commercial Pd/C, the metal-support interactions contribute to the activity and durability improvement of the PdCu/NiZnP nanohybrids. Moreover, the NiZnP NSs promote the formation of OH species, thereby facilitating the removal of carbonaceous intermediates and ensuring the long-term stability of PdCu/NiZnP nanohybrids. This study provides deep insight into the supported catalysts and a comprehensive understanding of the metal-support interactions, offering great opportunities for the design of efficient catalysts for direct fuel cells.