Recent advances in Pt-based alloy catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction

The oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is a critical process at the cathode of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), but its slow kinetics significantly limit the overall energy conversion efficiency. Pt-based alloy catalysts remain the most effective catalysts for electrocatalyzing ORR. However, the high cost, limited reserves, and insufficient durability of Pt-based alloy catalysts pose major barriers to the widespread commercialization of PEMFCs. This review summarizes recent progress in the development of advanced Pt-based alloy ORR catalysts. Key strategies for their performance enhancement are discussed, mainly including geometric structure optimization , strain effect regulation and carrier interface modulation . Finally, we outline the current challenges and future research directions towards achieving high-performance, low-cost, and durable Pt-based alloy catalysts for next-generation fuel cells.