Synthesis and characterization of Pt–Pd alloy and core-shell bimetallic nanoparticles for direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs): Enhanced electrocatalytic properties of well-shaped core-shell morphologies and nanostructures

In our research, we present the controlled synthesis of poly(vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP) protected Pt–Pd nanoparticles of various alloy and core-shell morphologies by modified polyol method with the assistance of AgNO3. The Pt–Pd alloy and core-shell nanoparticles were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), high-resolution TEM, and electrochemical measurements. The comparison of electrocatalytic properties of Pd–Pt bimetallic nanoparticles was described to confirm their highest catalytic performance. Importantly, the catalytic activity of Pt–Pd alloy and core-shell nanoparticles was investigated to develop novel electrocatalysts in direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs). The results showed that the core-shell nanoparticles with the thin nanoshells as monolayers exhibit as great nanocatalysts. The correlation among structure, size and morphology was presented in their catalytic characterization.

► The Pt-Pd alloy and core-shell bimetallic nanoparticles are synthesized.
► The epitaxial growth mode of the Pd-monolayers shells on the Pt nanocores is observed.
► The Pt-Pd or Pd-Pd core-shell nanoparticles with the thin Pt or Pd nanoshells in the forms of the monolayers exhibit their great electrocatalysis for direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs).
► Interestingly, the size issues in the catalytic activity are really not as important as morphology and nanostructure.