First optimization steps for the Nanocluster Synthesis of Platinum-Yttrium Alloys: Insights from a sputter gas aggregation source

Nanoclusters (NCs) are critical in advanced technologies due to their unique size-dependent properties, offering significant potential in catalysis, energy storage, energy conversion and electronic devices. In this study, the first steps were taken towards optimizing the synthesis of nanoclusters from platinum-yttrium alloys for cost-efficient fuel cell technologies, employing a magnetron sputtering system combined with a gas aggregation source. Copper was used as a benchmark material to investigate the effects of varying gas flow rates, aggregation lengths, and coating times on cluster size. Subsequently, experiments with yttrium and platinum were conducted. NC sizes in the range of 4 to 12 nm could be synthesized. These results provide a comprehensive parameter map for NC synthesis and contribute to the further development of this kind of synthesis for sustainable fuel cell technology by reducing platinum consumption and improving catalytic efficiency.