The shape evolution from PtxCoy@Co cubes to PtxCoy multicubes for selective hydrogenation of α,β-unsaturated aldehyde

Abstract

We report the synthesis of Pt_xCo_y@Co cubes and Pt_xCo_y multicubes through use of the previous structure as a seed precursor to induce the formation of the latter. Herein, Pt_xCo_y nanocrystals underwent a shape evolution from a core–shell structure to multicubes under an identical synthetic condition via using the previous structure serving as a seed precursor to induce the formation of the latter. Pt_xCo_y@Co cubes can be viewed as a Pt_xCo_y octapod core coated by a Co atom shell that exhibits complete selectivity towards the CC bond of unsaturated aldehydes. The Co shell of Pt_xCo_y@Co was further substituted by introducing Pt atoms, followed by successive deposition of Pt on Pt_xCo_y, and interdiffusion between Pt and Co, leading to formation of multicubes. Such multicubes gave rise to superior catalytic activity with higher selectivity for the CO bond of unsaturated aldehydes compared to pure Pt nanocubes and a commercial Pt/C catalyst.