Shape-controlled PdSn alloy as superior electrocatalysts for alcohol oxidation reactions

At present, it is still a great challenge to control the morphology and size of nanoparticles for obtaining more efficient and stable catalysts for direct fuel cell reactions. Herein, we have synthesized a series of Pd3Sn bimetallic catalysts with different morphologies that transitioned from nanonetwork to nanostrips and then to nanodots by altering the varieties of reducing agents and the amount of surfactant. And the formation mechanisms of nanocatalysts were also investigated. It is worth noting that Pd3Sn-dots, due to the unique structure, uniform dispersion and ultra-small size, exhibit excellent electrocatalytic activity for ethanol oxidation reaction and ethylene glycol oxidation reaction, which distinctly higher than the other Pd3Sn catalysts and commercial Pd/C catalysts. Moreover, the as-prepared Pd3Sn catalysts also performed greater long-term durability due to the electronic and synergistic effects. This work provides guidance on the morphology-dependent nanocrystals, which will show a great potential as anodic catalysts in direct fuel cell applications.