Structure-activity relationship of tri-metallic Pt-based nanocatalysts for methanol oxidation reaction

Ternary Pt-based nanostructures are deemed as promising anode electrocatalysts for low-temperature and green direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs) due to their bifunctional mechanism, electronic/strain effect, and synergetic effect. That leads to an optimal binding affinity for adsorbates, prompt methanol adsorption/activation, efficient charge transfer, reduced binding of oxygenated species (e.g., OH–), and superior CO-tolerance. Due to the continual progress in the rational synthesis of ternary Pt-based nanostructures, it is utterly crucial to emphasize the latest advances in this area. Herein, we deeply provide a qualitative and quantitative analysis of the rational fabrication of ternary Pt-based nanostructures (i.e., free-standing alloy and core–shell structure, and supported catalysts on conductive materials) toward methanol oxidation reaction (MOR), rooting from fundamentals, the engineering of morphology to the structure–activity relationship and the enhanced mechanism. In addition, the deliberations on the cutting-edge limitations and prospective remarks are proposed to guide the development of a highly efficient and durable ternary Pt-based system for DMFCs.