Simple wet-chemical synthesis of alloyed PdAu nanochain networks with improved electrocatalytic properties

Bimetallic PdAu alloyed nanochain networks (PdAu NCNs) were facilely prepared by a simple wet-chemical method with the assistance of allantoin as the structure-directing agent and stabilizing agent. Allantoin played an important role in the formation of chain-like networks. The products were mainly characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The as-prepared PdAu NCNs had enlarged electrochemical active surface area, and displayed enhanced electrocatalytic activity toward oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and methanol oxidation reaction (MOR), showing higher resistance to poisoning CO-like intermediates in MOR and more positive onset potential in ORR as compared to commercial Pd black catalyst. This approach provides a promising route for large-scale preparation of desirable bimetallic catalysts with the assistance of small biomolecules.