Gold Palladium Core Shell Nanoparticles (Au/Pd, 99.9%, APS: 80-100nm, Metal Core/Metal Shell)

Gold-Palladium Core-Shell Nanoparticles

Applications:

Catalysis

Hydrogenation Reactions: Pd is a well-known catalyst for hydrogenation reactions, while Au has shown activity for certain reactions where Pd is less efficient. The Au-Pd core-shell structure can combine the advantages of both metals. Pd’s high catalytic activity for hydrogenation is enhanced by the presence of the gold core, which can improve the selectivity and reaction rates in processes like the hydrogenation of alkenes, alkynes, and other organic compounds.

Oxygen Reduction and Evolution Reactions: In fuel cells and electrolyzers, Au-Pd core-shell nanoparticles are studied for their performance in oxygen reduction reactions (ORR) and oxygen evolution reactions (OER). Pd can facilitate the reduction of oxygen, while gold can stabilize the nanoparticle structure and increase its durability under harsh conditions.

CO Oxidation: Au-Pd NPs are also used in the oxidation of carbon monoxide (CO), where the palladium shell provides the catalytic activity, and the gold core helps prevent the aggregation of Pd atoms, which can lead to deactivation.

C-C Coupling Reactions: In organic synthesis, Au-Pd core-shell NPs can catalyze C-C bond formation reactions, such as the Suzuki and Heck reactions, which are vital for the pharmaceutical and petrochemical industries.

Electrocatalysis
Gold-palladium core-shell nanoparticles are also employed in electrocatalytic processes, including the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), methanol oxidation, and fuel cell reactions. The high surface area and the unique electronic properties of these bimetallic nanoparticles help enhance the efficiency of electrocatalysis. The palladium shell is often the active site for electron transfer, while the gold core can provide electronic stabilization and enhance the overall electrocatalytic performance.

Sensors and Biosensors
Au-Pd core-shell nanoparticles have been explored for use in sensors, especially in the detection of gases like CO and H₂. The high surface area, combined with the catalytic activity of Pd, makes these nanoparticles ideal for sensitive and selective detection of environmental pollutants or biochemical substances. They can also be incorporated into biosensors for the detection of biomolecules, leveraging the unique electrochemical properties of the nanoparticles.

Photocatalysis
The plasmonic properties of gold, combined with the catalytic activity of palladium, make Au-Pd core-shell nanoparticles potential candidates for photocatalysis. The gold core can absorb light and enhance the reaction rate, while the palladium shell can catalyze the required reactions. These nanoparticles can be used in solar-driven processes such as water splitting, carbon dioxide reduction, or the degradation of organic pollutants.