Unsupported Platinum-Based Electrocatalysts for Oxygen Reduction Reaction

Electrocatalyst development has been a cornerstone for fuel cell applications but heavily hindered by several technical challenges, especially the insufficient activity and poor durability of electrocatalysts toward the sluggish kinetics of the oxygen reduction reaction. Here we propose our perspective on the exciting developments in unsupported platinum (Pt)-based nanocatalysts, with an emphasis on the multidimensional Pt architectures as an alternative to carbon-supported Pt electrocatalysts. After reviewing recent developments, we highlight the challenges and opportunities of unsupported Pt-based electrocatalysts, which may offer a broad materials library of noble metal structures for fuel cells and other sustainable energy technologies.