Platinum monolayer catalysts consist of nanometer-scale platinum that are supported by metal cores. These catalyst architectures boast ultra low Pt content and high Pt utilization, as all atoms are on the surface and can participate in reaction. Activity and durability of these surfaces are affected by the underlying support, where the properties of the core influence the properties of the overlayer, allowing a particularly broad scope possibilities for applications.
X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and extended x-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) techniques are used to examine atomic and electronic properties across the overlayer/support junction as well local atomic arrangement. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) and the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) are used as probes to examine the electrochemically active area of Pt monolayers and catalyst activity, respectively.