Effect of platinum promoters on the removal of O from the surface of cobalt catalysts: A DFT study

► DFT study on the role of the Pt promoter in the removal of O from Co surface. ► When Pt atoms are present on the surface, the activation barrier is reduced. ► A micro-kinetic analysis shows that the TOF for promoted Co surface is increased. ► Pt atoms on the surface of Co help reduce its deactivation by promoting O removal.