Platinum alloy catalysts function through mechanisms similar to those of pure platinum, but the presence of alloying metals can modify the electronic structure and surface properties of the platinum. These modifications can lead to changes in the adsorption energies of reactants and intermediates, thereby enhancing catalytic activity and selectivity. For instance, in a platinum-cobalt alloy, cobalt atoms can alter the electronic environment of adjacent platinum atoms, making them more effective at breaking and forming chemical bonds.
