Structural and activity comparison of self-limiting versus traditional Pt electro-depositions on nanopillar Ni films

► This is the first report of Pt-Ni glancing angle deposited (GLAD) based electrocatalysts. ► We contrast 2 methods to electro-deposit Pt on GLAD Ni nanopillars. ► We evaluate 2-propanol oxidation activity of the Pt-Ni deposits in alkaline media. ► Activity at low potentials results from the combined activity of Ni and Pt. ► At high potentials, Ni promotes Pt activity via a bifunctional effect.