Using selenium-functionalized carbon as supports, platinum nanoparticles were uniformly dispersed on the carbon surface, and showed improved electrochemical properties for the oxygen reduction reaction. At the same time the CO tolerance is improved. The method provides a new route for functionalization of the carbon surface on which to disperse noble metal nanoparticles for use as electrocatalysts in the oxygen reduction reaction. (C) 2013 The Electrochemical Society. [DOI: 10.1149/2.014306jes] All rights reserved.