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The depletion of fossil fuels and environmental degradation due to greenhouse gases has triggered research in alternative energy sources, such as proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). The power generation associated with PEMFCs is acquired by the oxidation of hydrogen or alcohol at the anode and the reduction of oxygen at the cathode to form water, resulting in a four electron process. Pt-based nanoparticles (2-5 nm) supported on carbon black are most commonly used as electrocatalysts to facilitate both reactions. Although Pt is an efficient electrocatalyst, it can be the most expensive component in the PEMFC. Downsizing Pt particles to sub-nanometer clusters could significantly increase their catalytic activity. On the other hand, it would benefit the market to use an alternative catalyst that is readily available at a lower cost, while maintaining or exceeding the kinetics of the current design.

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