Cubic Platinum-Group Metal Nanostructures: Syntheses, Growth Mechanisms, and Catalytic Applications

Platinum-group metals (PGMs) are essential for heterogeneous catalysis. Their scarcity and soaring cost make efficiency-driven, property-optimized catalysts imperative. The catalytic performance of PGMs is strongly influenced by their exposed crystal facets, particularly the {100} facets in face-centered cubic (fcc) structures, which exhibit unique catalytic properties. This review focuses on the synthesis and growth mechanisms of PGM nanocubes (NCs) enclosed by {100} facets, highlighting key strategies for their precise control. Two primary approaches—one-pot synthesis and seed-mediated synthesis—are discussed, along with factors influencing NC formation, such as reducing agents, solvents, precursors, reaction temperatures, surfactants, and facet-directing agents. The growth mechanisms of PGM NCs are also analyzed to provide insights into morphology control and enable tailored design for enhanced catalytic performance. This review summarizes three decades of advances to guide the development of PGM-based nanomaterials with optimized properties.