Synthesis of well-dispersive 2.0 nm Pd–Pt bimetallic nanoclusters supported on β-cyclodextrin functionalized graphene with excellent electrocatalytic activity

In this work, ultrasmall Pd–Pt bimetallic nanoclusters with a uniform size of 2.0 nm monodispersed on β-cyclodextrin functionalized reduced graphene oxide (β-CD-RGO) were successfully prepared in aqueous solution at room temperature within 30 min without the need for any organic solvent or high temperature. The integration of β-CD and RGO was responsible for the formation of the monodispersed 2.0 nm Pd–Pt bimetallic nanoclusters. Inspired by the monodisperse, ultrasmall, and pristine properties of the Pd–Pt clusters, the Pd–Pt@β-CD-RGO nanohybrid displayed enhanced activity for methanol and ethanol oxidation in alkaline media in comparison with the commercial Pd/C catalysts. This facile and simple method is of significance for the preparation of bimetallic nanocatalysts with high catalytic activity on suitable supporting materials.