Cross-double dumbbell-like Pt-Ni nanostructures with enhanced catalytic performance toward the reactions of oxygen reduction and methanol oxidation

Investigating on well-defined structure-engineering and atomic arrangement of fuel cell catalysts with high activity has attracted considerable research interest the last decade. Specially, unique nanostructures, which possess high surface-to-volume ratio and high atomic utilization have been emerged as promising candidate catalysts. Herein, we have successfully synthesized Pt-Ni cross double dumbbell-like nanostructures (Pt-Ni CDDNs) via a facile one-pot synthesis route and a kinetic control with surface capping. It is found that the as-prepared Pt-Ni alloy nanostructures exhibit an enhanced catalytic activity toward oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) in comparison with commercial Pt/C catalysts. The excellent electrooxidation property is attributed to the synergistic effect between Pt and Ni atoms, as well as high specific surface area of dumbbell-like nanostructures with multiple nanosheets. The present work provides new opportunities for the rational design of bimetallic nanomaterials with enhanced catalytic performance.