Content of review 1, reviewed on September 29, 2025
In this work, the authors report the proof-of-concept synthesis of ternary Cu–Ag–Pd nanostructures via a synergistic galvanic replacement reaction. This strategy leverages the coupled redox reactions between Cu(0) and Ag(I)/Pd(II), where careful control of Pd and Ag incorporation, alongside the dissolution of Cu, allows for effective regulation of lattice strain. Such regulation is shown to markedly enhance the electrocatalytic performance of the material. Nevertheless, the current manuscript exhibits significant shortcomings in terms of material characterization, mechanistic understanding, and assessment of practical applicability. A substantial revision is therefore recommended to comprehensively address these issues.
1 In Figures 1d–e, the Pd 3d and Ag 3d peaks of the Cu/C-GRR-Pd+Ag sample shift toward higher binding energies. The reason for this shift is not explained in the text and should be supplemented.
2 The text mentions that the extension of the GRR principle to the synthesis of trimetallic alloys holds promise for medium- and high-entropy materials. This study synthesizes trimetallic CuAg-Pd nanostructures. To determine whether they meet the definition of medium-entropy materials, ICP experimental results should be provided to calculate their mixing entropy, thereby clarifying whether they qualify as medium-entropy materials.
3 Please supply the post-test EDS to determine whether Ag and Pd have dissolved and whether they remain stable.
4 In Figure 4d, the Cu/C-GRR-Pd sample exhibits higher GeA selectivity than the Cu/C-GRR-Pd+Ag sample. Since the sample without Ag shows higher selectivity, why was the CuAg-Pd nanostructure synthesized? Please provide further explanation.
5 During the stability test, the activity of the Cu/C-GRR-Pd+Ag sample declined rapidly, but the reason for this was not explained in the text. Please supplement the long-term stability (>24 h) of glycerol oxidation on Cu/C-GRR-Pd+Ag.
6 Compared with catalysts reported in other literature, what are the advantages of Cu/C-GRR-Pd+Ag?
Source
© 2025 the Reviewer.
Content of review 2, reviewed on October 21, 2025
The revision is satisfactory and it is now acceptable for publication.
Source
© 2025 the Reviewer.
References
Eddy, Z., Zahra, H. K., Aristide, K. B., Erwan, O., Valerie, B., Eddy, P., Valerie, F., David, C., Mikhael, B., Yaovi, H. 2025. Concerted galvanic replacement reactions towards trimetallic Cu-Ag-Pd nanostructures for glycerol electrocatalysis. Chemical Communications.
