Au@Pd Core–Shell Nanobricks with Concave Structures and Their Catalysis of Ethanol Oxidation

Graphical Not just another brick in the wall: Brick-like Au@Pd core–shell nanobricks (CNBs) with a concave surface were synthesized through a one-pot procedure, and show an enhanced performance towards ethanol electrooxidation. The improved performance of the CNBs is a result of the exposed stepped surfaces, high-index facets, and the synergistic effects of the core and shell metals. Au@Pd core–shell nanobricks (CNBs) with concave surfaces and Pd shells with a thickness of approximately 5 nm were synthesized by co-reduction of HAuCl 4 and H 2 PdCl 4 in the presence of Au seeds and Ag ions. These as-synthesized concave CNBs exhibit significantly enhanced catalytic activity for the electrooxidation of ethanol in alkaline media compared to the commercially-used Pd black. The improved performance of the Au@Pd CNBs can be attributed to the exposed stepped surfaces, high-index facets, and the synergistic effects of the core and shell metals.