Site Navigation
General Information
Categories: advanced materials, nanotechnology
BSA 12-43: Gold Nanoprisms Enhance Platinum Catalysts
BNL Reference Number: BSA 12-43
Patent Status: Provisional filed on October 15, 2012
Summary
Platinum, while an excellent catalyst for applications ranging from synthesis of drug molecules to fuel cell reactions, is extremely expensive. By depositing a single atomic layer of platinum on specially shaped gold nanoparticles, the catalytic activity of platinum is actually enhanced while decreasing the amount of costly platinum needed.
Description
Truncated ditetragonal gold prisms (Au TDPs) were synthesized by adding a dilute solution of gold seeds to a growth solution and allowing the growth to proceed to completion. The Au TDPs exhibit the face-centered cubic crystal structure and are bounded by 12 high-index {310} facets. The Au TDPs may be used as heterogeneous catalysts as prepared, or may be used as substrates for subsequent deposition of an atomically thin layer of a platinum group metal catalyst. When the Au TDPs are used as substrates, the atomically thin layer of metal reproduces the high-index facets of the Au TDPs.
Benefits
Platinum monolayers on truncated ditetragonal gold nanoprisms are as active as much smaller platinum nanoparticles while using less platinum and demonstrating greater stability over time. This reduces the need for the precious metal and lowers the cost of the catalyst.
Applications and Industries
Catalysts made from platinum monolayers on truncated ditetragonal gold nanoprisms can be used to facilitate reactions at fuel cell electrodes, in the synthesis of drug candidates, and in any platinum-catalyzed reaction that occurs at or below about 2000 Celsius.
Journal Publication
Have Questions?
For more information about this technology, contact Kimberley Elcess, (631) 344-4151.
Tags: catalysis, electrocatalyst
