Strong metal–support bonding enhanced thermal stability in Au–Al2O3 core–shell nanowires characterized by in situ transmission electron microscopy

Abstract

In this study, the thermal stability of Au–Al₂O₃ core–shell and Au nanowires was investigated by in situ scanning transmission electron microscopy and other techniques. The nanowires were synthesized by the helium droplets method and deposited on various substrates. The in situ characterization of Au–Al₂O₃ thermal stability demonstrated a substantially enhanced stability as compared to that of pure Au nanowires, which can be a transformative approach to design more durable Au-based nanocatalysts. Our study also revealed the existence of strong metal–support bonding in the Au/Al₂O₃ system.