Unique Half Embedded/Exposed PdFeCu/C Interfacial Nanoalloy as High‐Performance Electrocatalyst for Oxygen Reduction Reaction

Design of high-performance non-Pt electrocatalyst for fuel cell applications is greatly anticipated. Herein, we have developed a unique half-embedded and half-exposed interfacial PdFeCu nanoalloy anchored onto carbon matrix. The stable electronic coupling between the carbon matrix and PdFeCu nanoalloy possess very fast interfacial electron transfer which in turn enhances the electron conductivity. This makes the trimetallic nanoalloy high performing oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) electrocatalyst in both basic and acidic media. The PdFeCu/C nanoalloy exhibits enhanced electrochemically active surface area than various PdFe/C bimetallics as well as benchmark 20 wt% Pt/C and Pd/C. As a result, it offers larger active sites for ORR and eased the electron transport during the electrocatalysis. It exhibits 1.5- and 2.4-fold higher mass activity in comparison to the Pt/C and Pd/C. Furthermore, it exhibits long-term stability and low onset potential compared to those of the other catalysts. Thus, the present investigation shows potential strategy for the design and synthesis of Pt-free electrocatalyst with remarkable catalytic activity and stability.