Direct solution-based reduction synthesis of Au, Pd, and Pt aerogels

Gold, palladium, and platinum aerogels were prepared by a rapid, direct solution-based reduction synthesis with densities of 0.54, 0.065, and 0.055 g/cm3, respectively. Salt solutions were reduced at 1:1 (v/v) with dimethylamine borane and sodium borohydride to rapidly form gels within seconds to minutes above a threshold salt concentration and were then rinsed and freeze dried. Au, Pd, and Pt aerogels had no presence of oxide phases confirmed by X-ray diffractometry. Specific surface areas determined with gas physisorption were 3.06, 15.43, and 20.56 m2/g for Au, Pd, and Pt. Electrochemically determined specific capacitances using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry were 2.18, 4.13, and 4.20 F/g, and 2.67, 7.99, and 5.12 F/g for Au, Pd, and Pt, respectively. The rapid synthesis, high solvent accessible specific surface area, conductivity, and capacitance make these noble metal aerogels candidates for many of catalytic, energy, and sensor applications.