The oleylamine (OAm)-functionalized Pd nanoparticles (Pd-OAm) have been conveniently synthesized through direct thermal decomposition method of low cost palladium acetate. The morphology, crystalline structure and composition of the Pd OAm are investigated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, XPS and zeta potential analysis confirm the successful immobilization of OAm molecules on the Pd nanoparticles surface. The Pd-OAm displays an enhanced electrocatalytic activity and formic acid-tolerant ability for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), suggesting a potential application in cathodic catalyst for direct formic acid fuel cells. (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.