Influence of the Carbon Support on the Properties of Platinum–Yttrium Nanoalloys for the Oxygen Reduction Reaction

Electrocatalysts of high mass activity, high electrochemical surface area, and long-term stability are required for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) at the cathode of fuel cells. Here, Pt-Y nanoalloys were produced by a solid-state approach on the most frequently used commercially available carbon supports, i.e., Vulcan XC-72, Ketjenblack EC-300J, and Ketjenblack EC-600JD. The prepared electrocatalysts were characterized and evaluated toward the ORR in acidic medium. Our results reveal that the nature of the carbon support influences the crystalline phase of the Pt-Y nanoalloy that forms on it as well as its particle size and near-surface chemistry. Using Ketjenblack EC-300 J produced mainly Pt₃Y alloy nanoparticles of size ca. 5 nm. This carbon support effect was correlated to the activity/stability toward the ORR of the prepared nanoalloys. Our contribution provides insights for the optimal design of highly active/durable carbon-supported Pt-Y nanostructured electrocatalysts for fuel cells.