Monodisperse Pt₃Co Nanoparticles as a Catalyst for the Oxygen Reduction Reaction: Size-Dependent Activity

Monodisperse Pt3Co nanoparticles with size controlled from 3 to 9 nm have been synthesized through an organic solvothermal approach and applied as electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction. Electrochemical study shows that the Pt3Co nanoparticles are highly active for the oxygen reduction reaction and the activity is size-dependent. The optimal size for maximal mass activity was established to be around 4.5 nm by balancing the electrochemically active surface area and specific activity.