platinumgrouplike

Platinumgrouplike is a term used in materials science to describe materials or catalysts whose performance approaches that of platinum group metals (PGMs)—the six metals platinum, palladium, rhodium, ruthenium, iridium, and osmium. The term is not strictly standardized; in practice it denotes catalysts or coatings that exhibit high activity, selectivity, and durability, at lower cost or with more abundant elements.

These materials may be natural PGMs or engineered analogs. In catalytic research, platinumgrouplike often refers to earth-abundant metals or nanostructured materials designed to mimic PGM active sites. Techniques include nanoscale alloying, shape control, defect engineering, and single-atom catalysis, which can reproduce or approximate the surface chemistry of PGMs.

Common targets are improved hydrogenation, hydrocarbon reforming, and electrocatalysis for fuel cells or electrolyzers, where PGMs are highly efficient but costly. Platinumgrouplike catalysts aim to achieve similar activity or stability using nickel, iron, cobalt, copper, or tin-based systems, often in combination with supports or carbon nanotubes.

Challenges include achieving sustained performance under real-world conditions, resistance to poisoning, and long-term stability. Cost reduction, supply risk mitigation, and scalable synthesis remain active research areas.

See also: platinum group metals, catalysis, single-atom catalysts, high-entropy alloy, earth-abundant catalysis.