Precise Construction of Asymmetrically Coordinated PtCuZn Trimetallic Atom Catalysts for Efficient Oxygen Reduction

With advancements in the study of catalysts at atomic sites, the unique and predictable characteristics of atomic models have enabled the exploration of catalysts with monoatomic, diatomic, and polymetallic centers. In this study, a platinum-copper-zinc trimetallic catalyst (named PtCuZn/SNC) was synthesized by the spatial confinement method and polymer coating method. This triatomic catalyst facilitates electronic interaction and charge redistribution among the three metal atoms, optimizing the adsorption and desorption of reaction intermediates and thereby exhibiting excellent performance in acidic oxygen reduction reactions. In the oxygen reduction reaction test, a high half-wave potential of 0.859 V and an impressive energy density of 532 mW cm⁻² were achieved in fuel cell tests, demonstrating the outstanding catalytic performance of the catalyst. These findings suggest that the design and synthesis of monodisperse triatomic catalysts provide a promising route to improve the efficiency of H₂/O₂ fuel cells.