Dual-frequency ultrasound for designing two dimensional catalyst surface: Reduced graphene oxide–Pt composite

Few-layered reduced graphene oxide–Pt composites are prepared using a combination of two ultrasound frequencies at 20 kHz and 211 kHz. Such a unique dual frequency arrangement operating in tandem, yields large exfoliated graphene sheets with platinum nanoparticles dispersed on them. The extent of reduction achieved by the use of this dual frequency sonication arrangement is evaluated by XPS, IR, and Raman spectroscopies. Transmission electron and atomic force microscopies confirm the morphology of resulting assemblies to be bi- and single layered sheets. These composites show good electrocatalytic activity towards methanol oxidation.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Dual frequency ultrasound for synthesis of reduced graphene oxide (RGO)–Pt composites. ► Simultaneous reduction and exfoliation of graphene oxide sheets. ► RGO–Pt composites show excellent electrocatalytic activity towards methanol oxidation.