Popcorn-like PtAu nanoparticles supported on reduced graphene oxide: Facile synthesis and catalytic applications

Abstract

Popcorn-like PtAu nanoparticles were fabricated by a facile and green one-pot wet-chemical method, where H₂PtCl₄ and HAuCl₄ were simultaneously reduced by glucosamine in alkaline media. The PtAu nanoparticles were further supported on reduced graphene oxide by simple ultrasonication. The nanocomposites showed an enhanced catalytic performance toward oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), dominated by a four-electron pathway, in comparison with Pt–rGO and commercial 10% Pt/C catalysts. Meanwhile, the nanocomposites displayed improved electrocatalytic properties and better stability for methanol oxidation over Pt–rGO and commercial Pt/C catalysts.