Direct synthesis of superlong Pt|Te mesoporous nanotubes for electrocatalytic oxygen reduction

Abstract

Design of a one-dimensional (1D) nanostructure with consecutive mesopores is significant for electrocatalytic applications. Herein, we proposed a facile wet-chemical method to synthesize superlong Pt|Te mesoporous nanotubes (Pt|Te MNTs) using tellurium (Te) nanowires (NWs) as a sacrificial template. Benefiting from the characteristics of the mesoporous and hollow nanotube structure, the Pt|Te MNTs show superior activity and durability in catalyzing the oxygen reduction reaction. The newly designed Pt|Te MNTs are very different from the traditional 1D structure with a smooth surface and solid interiors. The present facile strategy is highly valuable for the design of a 1D nanostructure with a mesoporous exterior and hollow interior.