One-pot synthesis of Pt-Co alloy nanowire assemblies with tunable composition and enhanced electrocatalytic properties

Three-dimensional (3D) Pt-based alloy nanostructures composed of one-dimensional (1D) nanowires/nanorods have recently attracted significant interest as electrocatalysts. In this work, we report an effective solvothermal method for the direct preparation of 3D Pt-Co nanowire assemblies (NWAs) with tunable composition. The composition- and structure-dependent electrocatalytic performance is thoroughly investigated. Because of the bimetallic synergetic effect and unique structural advantage, the as-prepared 3D Pt3Co NWA outperforms commercial Pt/carbon and Pt black catalysts and even 3D Pt NWA. The electrochemical results demonstrate that the 3D Pt3Co NWA is indeed a promising electrocatalyst with enhanced catalytic activity and improved durability for practical electrocatalytic applications.