Gem-like Nanoparticles Shine as Catalysts Easily scalable process can both create new catalysts and recycle spent ones

摘要

A NEW method using metal nanopatticles to make catalysts could lead to better fuel cells,among other applications,say researchers ar Northwestern University,Evanston,Ill.The technique yields so-called high-index facet nanopar-ticle catalysts that significantly outperform conventional ones,and also can restore spent catalysts,they add.The multi-faced gem-shape of the catalysts allow atoms at the surface to become more catalytically active than those available commercially.Basic metal precursors combined with heat and stabilizing trace elements rapidly transform the shape into structures that are highly active.The technique doesn't use ligands that can compromise catalytic activity.