Microemulsion synthesis and electrocatalytic properties of carbon-supported Pd-Co-Au alloy nanoparticles

► Pd-Co-Au/C nanocatalysts are prepared by microemulsion technique. ► Similar redox behavior of Pd-Co-Au/C catalysts with Pt is evident. ► Pd-Co-Au/C exhibited high ORR activity compared to Pd/C. ► The role of alloying elements on the enhanced activity of Pd is studied.