Interface engineering of Pt and CeO2 nanorods with unique interaction for methanol oxidation

The interface between Pt nanoparticles and support materials is of critical importance for tuning the electrocatalytic properties. The physical and chemical characteristics of metal oxide would influence the electronic and physical interactions with Pt nanoparticles. Engineering the interface interaction between Pt and CeO2 may be an effective way to modulate the electrocatalytic activity for electro-oxidation of methanol (MOR). Herein, ceria nanorods with rich oxygen vacancies (Vo) and rough surface have been induced by plasma surface engineering, and used as Pt support. For the special property of ceria, the particle size and dispersion of Pt nanoparticles could be well modified, the interaction of Pt and ceria are also regulated. Interestingly, the abundant Vo on ceria surface afford surplus electrons, which would transfer to the sub-surface with decreased Ce valence in the sub-surface of CeO2, and change the electron transfer between Pt and ceria, increase the electron density of Pt. Due to unique electron structure of Pt and CeO2, MOR catalytic activity and durability of the electrocatalyst are significantly enhanced.