Atomic layer deposition of Pt nanocatalysts on graphene oxide nanosheets for electro-oxidation of formic acid

This study describes an atomic layer deposition (ALD) approach for the fabrication of Pt nanocatalysts supported on graphene oxide (GO) sheets and their electrocatalytic performance in electro-oxidation of formic acid. The ALD process for forming the Pt atomic layer involves two self-limiting reactions and, thus, induces the decoration of ALD-Pt on the edges of GO sheets with the presence of dangling bonds and oxygen functionalities. The resultant ALD-Pt catalyst on GO sheets offers better catalytic activity, CO tolerance, and long-term stability than those on commercial carbon support. On the basis of the results, the ALD approach described here can be applied to the design of novel catalytic materials for a variety of energy-storage applications, for example, high-performance fuel cells. ► Pt nanoparticles were grown by atomic layer deposition onto graphene oxide sheets. ► One growth mechanism involving two self-limiting reactions is proposed. ► The resultant Pt catalyst displays high-power density and long-term durability. ► The advanced design of catalyst electrode for fuel cells has been developed.