Abstract: A metal alloy catalyst for the oxygen reduction reaction in fuel cells is disclosed. The catalyst contains the metals Pd, M1 and M2. M1 and M2 are different metals selected from Co, Fe, Au, Cr and W, excluding the combination PdCoAu.

Abstract: For the oxygen reduction reaction at the cathode of proton exchange membrane fuel cells, a metal alloy catalyst contains the metals Pd, M1 and M2 where M1 and M2 are different metals selected from Co, Fe, Au, Cr and W (but excluding the combination PdCoAu). Preferred ternary alloys for use as catalysts may be selected from PdCoCr, PdCoW, PdFeCr, PdFeW, PdCrW, PdWAu, PdCrAu, PdCoFe and PdFeAu. Compositional ranges that are specially effective are assessed by a high throughput physical vapor deposition method. Catalysts especially suitable for use in direct methanol fuel cells are identified.