Shape-Controlled Synthesis of Trimetallic PtPdCu Nanocrystals and Their Electrocatalytic Properties

Trimetallic PtPdCu porous nanocubes and nanodendrites are selectively synthesized by surfactant assisted coreduction of Pt, Pd, and Cu precursors in an aqueous solution. The morphology of PtPdCu nanocrystals can be controlled by use different types of surfactants in the synthesis process. The PtPdCu porous nanocubes and nanodendrites are served as electrocatalysts for methanol oxidation reaction in acidic medium. The leaching of Cu and Pd atoms during the electrocatalysis process is studied. The electrocatalytic activities of the PtPdCu nanocrystals increase with the leaching of Cu and Pd atoms and then tend to stable. The PtPdCu nanodendrites exhibit higher mass activity and better durability than the PtPdCu porous nanocubes and the commercial Pt/C catalyst. The better electrocatalytic performances of the PtPdCu nanodendrites may due to their unique morphology and the synergistic effect. The nanodendrite morphology can provide more active sites for electrocatalysis reactions, which is proved by its larger electrochemically active surface area. On the other hand, the synergistic effect from Pd and Cu atoms help to improve the catalysis activity of Pt.