Chemical transformation of solution-processed Ag nanocrystal thin films into electrically conductive and catalytically active Pt-based nanostructures

Abstract

Efficient methods for the controlled syntheses of metal nanocrystals are important for emerging electronics and catalysis applications. In this report, we present a solution-based method for the fabrication of Pt-coated Ag nanocrystal (NC) thin films through the use of ligand-exchange and electroless deposition. We successfully prepared uniform or bumpy Ag@Pt core/shell structures, as well as Ag–Pt alloy structures, through control of the reducing agents. We first report the Ag–Pt alloy structures can be synthesized by low-temperature and solution-based process of post treatment that exhibited high catalytic activity toward the hydrogen evolution reaction. © 2019 The Korean Society of Industrial and Engineering Chemistry