Three-dimensional PdAuRu nanospines assemblies for oxygen reduction electrocatalysis

Tailoring morphology and composition of electrocatalysts has a substantial impact on catalytic properties for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). In this work, trimetallic PdAuRu nanospine assemblies (PdAuRu NSAs) are fabricated via a simple one-step reduction route using DM-970 and KBr used as surfactant and structure directing agent, respectively. The hyperbranched structure has the characteristics of sufficient active sites, accessible transfer channels, and the excellent tolerance towards Ostwald ripening, migration and agglomeration of catalysts. Furthermore, the synergistic effect of Pd, Au and Ru atoms can alter the d-band energy of Pd, weaken the bond energy between the catalyst surface and the adsorbed species, thus changing the electronic structure and optimize the adsorption of oxygen on Pd. When explored for ORR in alkaline solution, the PdAuRu NSAs display superior catalytic activity and stability to commercial Pt/C. This synthesis tactic delivers a feasible route for the preparation of hyperbranched multi-metallic nanomaterials towards various electrocatalytic applications.