Layer-by-layer assembled multilayers of polyethylenimine-stabilized platinum nanoparticles and PEDOT:PSS as anodes for the methanol oxidation reaction.

Polyethylenimine-capped platinum nanoparticles (PEI-capped Pt NPs) are synthesized by photoreduction and qualified as a component for electrostatic layer-by-layer assembly and subsequent electrocatalysis. The PEI-capped Pt NPs are characterized for size and charge using scanning force microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering and zetapotential. Well-defined multilayers are produced via thin film electrostatic assembly of PEI-capped Pt NPs with the conducting polymer: poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(p-styrenesulfonate) [(PEDOT:PSS)(-)Na(+)].