1. College of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, China
2. School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, China
Precious-metal Pt-based catalysts, as one of the important catalysts in oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), have the limited reserves and high prices, limiting their large-scale application. How to improve the utilization rate of Pt is currently the key to develop high-performance catalysts for ORR. Especially, structure regulation (morphology, crystal phases, exposed crystal planes, electronic structure) of catalysts can effectively improve the utilization efficiency and intrinsic activity of Pt atoms. However, Pt nanoparticles have high surface energy due to their surface effect and small size effect, which leads to their instability in chemical reactions and affects the lifespan of the catalyst. Therefore, it remains still a major challenge to obtain Pt nanoparticles with high intrinsic activity, high exposure activity, and stable structure for Ptbased catalysts in the field of proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC). This article provides a review of the research progress in this field in recent years. The focus is on discussing the design concept and preparation technology of improving the oxygen reduction performance of Pt based nanocatalysts by regulating their structural elements such as morphology, crystal phase, crystal plane, and electronic structure. Finally, a brief summary is given for the challenges and research priorities faced by Pt-based catalysts for ORR.