Precise size and dominant-facet control of ultra-small Pt nanoparticles for efficient ethylene glycol, methanol and ethanol oxidation electrocatalysts

Control of the structure and shape of platinum nanocrystals has recently attracted much attention, mostly due to their specific properties and related catalytic functionalities. However, the realization of platinum nanocrystals with controlled sizes and dominant facet types remains a significant challenge. In this study, platinum nanoparticles with controllable sizes and dominant facets are produced via a simple, organic agent-free, rapid, clean and direct chemical reduction method. The effects of initial solution pH on the sizes and dominant facets of the platinum nanoparticles are investigated and the mechanism for different sizes and facets are examined. Electrocatalytic analyses show that the catalytic activities and stabilities of the synthesized platinum nanoparticles are related to their sizes and dominant facets, and these nanoparticles display great potential as substitutes for commercial Pt/C in the effective catalysis of ethylene glycol , methanol, and ethanol electrooxidation in alkaline medium . Among the present platinum nanoparticles, the nanoparticles synthesized in pH 3 initial conditions, with small average size and (111)-dominant facets, display the best electrocatalytic activity and stability.