The formation of porosity within nanoparticles via dealloying is notably constrained by the dimensions of the precursor particles, a limitation stemming from the surface kinetic processes occurring during dealloying. In this study, we present a straightforward methodology, specifically tailored for fabricating diminutive nanoporous alloy nanoparticles, originating from their small-sized precursor counterparts. We initiated our research with precursor PtNi alloy nanoparticles, which possess an average diameter of 9 nm. By incorporating an extrinsic metal, Ir, known for its slower surface diffusion on the nanoparticle surface, we successfully modulated the surface migration velocity of Pt during the dealloying process of the PtNi alloy nanoparticles. This precise manipulation led to the formation of an abundantly complex nanoporous structure on diminutive PtNi nanoparticles. Owing to their enhanced high surface area-to-volume ratio and the synergistic alloy effect, electrochemical tests revealed that the Ir-coated diminutive nanoporous PtNi nanoparticles exhibit superior electrocatalytic activities towards oxygen reduction and formic acid oxidation reactions. Furthermore, the presence of Ir on the surface effectively suppresses the surface diffusion rate of Pt, thereby significantly inhibiting the coarsening evolution of the porous metallic structure. This intervention ensures the long-term preservation of both structural integrity and catalytic stability.

Proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are efficient and zero emission energy conversion technology with promising application prospects towards carbon neutrality. The PEMFC's performance is largely affected by the poor water management, which is a substantial concern for long term durability. Herein, we overview the water management problems in PEMFCs, such as flooding and dehydration of membrane electrode assembly and analyze the causes and their impacts on the device performance. Major problems such as flooding impedes the gas transport and electrode reactions, while dehydration increases the membrane resistance and hinders proton transport. We have thoroughly overviewed several electrochemical and physicochemical diagnostic techniques for water management in PEMFCs. Additionally, material development and optimization approaches for the flow field structural design are explored in order to improve mass transport and wetting characteristics for optimized water management. Therefore, it is anticipated that this review will provide insights into the effective operation of PEMFCs as well as practical guidance for resolving water management issues in PEMFCs and associated technologies, like PEM water and CO₂ electrolyzers.