Development of Core-Shell Nanoparticles via Galvanic Replacement as Advanced Catalyst for Hydrogen Energy

Nowadays, there is a strong demand for clean and sustainable energy sources. In this context, the hydrogen cycle offers a promising solution to address global energy challenges. However, the widespread adoption of hydrogen technology requires overcoming several hurdles, including the development of highly active yet cost-effective catalysts.
Nanostructured catalysts with core-shell architectures have garnered significant attention due to their high catalytic activity, durability, and efficient utilization of precious metals. Among various preparation methods, galvanic replacement allows the creation of core-shell nanoparticles by replacing the outermost atomic layer of "less noble" metals (e.g., Cu, Co, Ni) with more noble catalytic metals (e.g., Pt, Pd, Ir).
This work focuses on the development of core-shell nanoparticles with various core-shell combinations and tunable shell structures. A key objective is to establish the structure-activity relationships of the synthesized nanostructures. Chemical characterization will be conducted using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). Structural analysis will be performed using scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM/TEM). Finally, the electrochemical activity of the nanoparticles will be evaluated using the rotating disk electrode (RDE) technique.

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