One-dimensional noble metal electrocatalysts: a promising structural paradigm for direct methanol fuel cells

In this perspective, the catalytic shortfalls of contemporary DMFCs are discussed in the context of the materials that are currently being employed as electrocatalysts in both the anode and cathode. In light of these shortfalls, the inherent advantages of one-dimensional (1D) nanostructures are highlighted so as to demonstrate their potential as efficient, robust, and active replacements for contemporary nanoparticulate electrocatalysts. Finally, we review in detail the recent applications of 1D nanostructured electrocatalysts as both anodes and cathodes, and explore their potentially promising results towards improving DMFC efficiency and cost-effectiveness. In the case of cathode electrocatalysts, our group has recently prepared both 200 nm platinum nanotubes and ultrathin 2 nm platinum nanowires, which evinced two-fold and seven-fold enhancements in area specific ORR activity, respectively, as compared with contemporary commercial Pt nanoparticles. Similarly, the development of one-dimensional anodic electrocatalysts such as alloyed PtRu and PtCo nanowires, hierarchical Pt similar to Pd nanowires, and segmented PtRu systems have yielded promising enhancements towards methanol oxidation.