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Noble metal clusters can enhance performance of catalysts and save resources

Researchers at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) have discovered that noble metal clusters are more reactive than individual atoms, allowing for improved removal of exhaust gases. The clusters exhibit optimal structure for high activity, enabling the development of catalysts with enhanced stability and long-term performance.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalNature Catalysis·DateOct 1, 2020

Hydrogen vehicles might soon become the global norm

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have developed a new catalyst that can produce cheaper and more sustainable hydrogen-powered vehicles, reducing reliance on precious materials like platinum. The breakthrough could make hydrogen vehicles more durable and scalable, leading to a potential shift towards sustainable transportation.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalNature Materials·DateAug 24, 2020

An innovative catalyst with Pt, Re and SnO2 nanoparticles as anode material in ethanol fuel cells

Scientists designed a functional ternary Pt/Re/SnO2/C catalyst, which exhibits more than ten times higher activity in the ethanol oxidation reaction compared to commercial platinum catalysts. The new catalyst features improved stability and is suitable for use as an anode material in direct ethanol fuel cells.

Tiny swimming donuts deliver the goods

Researchers created microscopic, 3D-printed tori (donuts) coated with nickel and platinum to mimic biological behavior. These 'micro swimmers' can swim in water, respond to signals, and transport particles, potentially delivering targeted drugs or aiding in micromixing.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 30, 2019

Shocking heat waves stabilize single atoms

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory successfully stabilized single atoms using record-high temperatures of up to 2000 K. The method enables the creation of stable single atom catalysts, which can remain in their place for unprecedented periods of time, maximizing atom-use efficiency and improving catalytic performance.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateSep 26, 2019

Iridium 'loses its identity' when interfaced with nickel

Researchers at Rutgers University have discovered a new kind of magnetic state in ultra-thin iridium-nickel interfaces, challenging theories on quantum materials. The findings could lead to greater manipulation of quantum materials and deeper understanding of the quantum state for novel electronics.

SourceRutgers University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 24, 2019

Activity of fuel cell catalysts doubled

Researchers at TUM have developed platinum nanoparticles that double the performance of current fuel cells. The particles are about one nanometer big and contain approximately 40 platinum atoms, resulting in high mass activity. This breakthrough could lead to widespread adoption of fuel cells in electric cars.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJul 3, 2019

Scientists produce colorless reservoir of platinum metal-like single atoms in liquid

Researchers produce a colorless liquid reservoir of metal-like discrete platinum atoms with high catalytic activity and stability, offering potential for reducing Pt consumption in the silicone industry. The scalable preparation method shields individual Pt atoms with hydrochlorides and docks them in the liquid through oxygen atoms.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 1, 2019

Platinum forms nano-bubbles

Researchers at DESY NanoLab discovered that platinum oxidizes more readily than expected when exposed to high pressures of oxygen, forming nano-bubbles. This phenomenon has significant implications for applications such as catalytic converters in cars and electrochemical sensors.

SourceDeutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY·JournalSolid State Ionics·DateJan 25, 2019

Creating a 2-D platinum magnet

Researchers have induced magnetism in platinum with an electric field created by a paramagnetic ionic liquid, creating a switchable 2D ferromagnet. This breakthrough could lead to the development of devices that can simultaneously control charge and spin.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 6, 2018

Electricity production: When enzymes rival platinum

Researchers have developed biocells that use enzymes to convert hydrogen into electrical energy, rivaling the performance of platinum-based fuel cells. The new technology uses heat-stable enzymes that can withstand high temperatures and resist inhibitors, overcoming major hurdles in industrial development.

SourceCNRS·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateSep 1, 2017