Composition effect of oxygen reduction reaction on PtSn nanorods: An experimental and computational study

PtSn-C with the highest Sn content results in the highest mass activity. However, the negatively charged OCS on Sn attracts the positively charged Pt and destructs the structures of Pt NRs. Accordingly, PtSn-A with the lowest Sn contain has the highest concentration of 1-D Pt NWs and shows the best stability in the accelerated durability test (ADT). Our results clarify the mechanism of ORR on PtSn electrodes and suggest the importance of the precise control of atomic ratios on PtSn catalysts for practical purpose. The findings open new perspectives about the origins of the activity and stability of the PtSn catalysts, especially for 1-D catalysts.302