Unconventional intermetallic noble metal nanocrystals for energy-conversion electrocatalysis

Structurally ordered intermetallic noble metal nanocrystals (NCs) with unconventional phases exhibit impressive catalytic activity and stability resulting from the novel atomic stacking patterns and coordination environments, and thus have attracted extensive attention for energy-conversion electrocatalysis in recent years. In this mini-review, recent advances in developing unconventional intermetallic noble metal NCs for high-performance electrochemical energy conversion technologies are highlighted. First, the theoretical aspects of the relationship between the crystal phases of metal alloys and their electrocatalytic performance are introduced, and the obstacles in the preparation of unconventional intermetallic noble metal NCs are described. Then, several representative examples are presented to highlight the applications of unconventional noble metal-based intermetallic NCs as electrocatalysts for different electrocatalytic reactions. Finally, perspectives and future opportunities for the rational design and preparation of unconventional intermetallic NCs for sustainable electrochemical devices are discussed.