Abstract
The great dependence of the electrocatalytic activity of most electrochemical reactions on the catalytic surface area and specific surface structure is widely accepted. Building on the extensive knowledge already available on single-crystal surfaces, this Perspective discusses the recent progress made in low-temperature fuel cells through the use of the most active shape-controlled noble metal-based nanoparticles. In particular, we will focus on discussing structure–composition–reactivity correlations in methanol, ethanol, and formic acid oxidation reactions and will offer a general vision of future needs.
Highlights
The great dependence of the electrocatalytic activity of most electrochemical reactions on the catalytic surface area and specific surface structure is widely accepted
Control of the exposed metal facets is essential in order to optimize their electrocatalytic activity
The use of metal single crystals with well-defined atomic arrangements allows the systematic investigation of the correlation between surface structure, composition and reactivity.[1]
Summary
Regarding shaped bimetallic Pd-based NPs, a combination of Pd with Rh forming a core−shell type structure was investigated, but lower activities were obtained as compared to pure Pd cubes.[79] Pd−Au nanocubes showed higher activities than Pd cubes and Pd and Pd−Au octahedral NPs (Figure 8c).[80] Pd−Cu tripods synthesized by Xia’s group displayed much higher activity as compared to Pd polycrystalline NPs.[81] They attributed the good performance to highly active {211} facets exposed on the catalyst as well as to an optimal density of Cu atoms on the surface for good oxidation of adsorbed intermediates.
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