Nanostructured intermetallics: from rational synthesis to energy electrocatalysis

Intermetallics are a large family of structurally ordered alloys that combines a metal element with other metal/metalloid elements with a clearly defined stoichiometric ratio. Intermetallics possess abundant crystal structures and atomic packing motifs, giving rise to a great variety of electronic configurations and surface adsorption properties. The wide electronic and geometric diversity makes intermetallics a highly promising population for discovering advanced materials for various catalytic applications. This review presents recent advances in the reaction synthesis of intermetallic materials at the nanoscale and their energy-related electrocatalytic applications. Initially, we introduce general principles for the formation of stable intermetallic structures. Subsequently, we elaborate on common synthetic strategies of nanostructured intermetallics, such as thermal annealing, wet-chemical methods, metallothermic reduction, and template-directed synthesis. Furthermore, we discuss the wide employment of these intermetallic nanocatalysts in many different kinds of electrocatalytic applications, as well as highlight the theoretical and experimental evidence for establishing a reasonable relationship between atomic arrangement and catalytic activity. Finally, we propose some perspectives for future developments of intermetallic preparation and catalytic applications.