Propionic acid–assisted surfactant-free synthesis of icosahedral Pt3Pd nanoparticles with enhanced electrochemical performance

This communication describes the facile and surfactant-free synthesis of Pt3Pd icosahedral nanocrystals through propionic acid (PA)–assisted solvothermal method. The complexes of N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF) and PA play critical roles in stabilizing the icosahedral shape with {111} surfaces. Icosahedral Pt3Pd nanocrystals exhibit an impressive methanol oxidation activity and durability. The enhanced electrochemical performance is attributed to the electron effects induced by the surface strain and some steps or kinks enclosed by high energy plane of {533}, {553}, and {554}.