Shape-controlled Pt nanocubes directly grown on carbon supports and their electrocatalytic activity toward methanol oxidation.

Synthesis of shape-controlled Pt nanocrystals is substantial and important for enhancing chemical and electrochemical reactions. However, the removal of capping agents, shape-controlling chemicals, on Pt surfaces is essential prior to conducting the catalytic reactions. Here we report a facile one-pot synthesis of Pt nanocubes directly grown on carbon supports (Pt nanocubes/C) with modulating the kinetic reaction factors for shaping the nanocrystals, but without adding any capping agents for preserving the clean Pt surfaces. Well-dispersed Pt nanocubes/C shows enhanced activity and long-term stability toward methanol oxidation reaction compared to the commercial Pt/C catalyst.