Hollow Ag/Pd triangular nanoplate: a novel activator for electroless nickel deposition.

Hollow Ag/Pd triangular nanoplates have been successfully prepared by a galvanic displacement reaction, in which added Pd(2+) ions react with Ag triangular nanoplates as templates. By altering the sizes of the Ag nanotemplates, Ag/Pd triangular nanoplates of different sizes can be prepared. Additionally, the large alloy nanoplates show maximum electrochemical activity when Ag/Pd triangular nanoplates of different sizes are applied as new activators for electroless nickel deposition.