We have developed a class of highly active and ultra-stable catalysts for oxygen reduction reactions (ORR), by doping the composition of Pt₃Ni surface layers with various transition metals (M). Mo-Pt₃Ni/C demonstrated ~4 times higher activity than the undoped Pt₃Ni/C, and nearly two orders magnitude higher activity than commercial Pt/C, while at the time exhibiting ultra-stability that greatly outperform bothPt₃Ni/C and Pt/C. This work simultaneous addresses the long lasting critical challenges in fuel cells regarding the low activity and durability of Pt ORR catalysts, and brings fuel cell technology one step closer to broad applications.

Our studies also provide a new strategy to enhance catalyst performance, which can contribute to more efficient chemical production and refinement process, reducing the associated negative environmental impact.