The fabrication of nanoporous Pt-based multimetallic alloy nanowires and their improved electrochemical durability

A general approach for the fabrication of nanoporous Pt-based multimetallic alloy nanowires is reported, which involves electrodeposition of corresponding precursor alloys into porous anodic alumina templates, followed by a mild dealloying process. Nanoporous ternary PtCoNi and PtCoAu as well as quaternary PtRuCoNi nanowires were successfully fabricated, and their microstructure and composition were examined by transmission electron microscopy. Electrochemical tests showed that these porous nanowires exhibit higher electrochemically active surface area and much improved durability compared to commercially available Pt black, and may find potential applications in electrocatalysis and electrochemical sensing.