Metallic cobalt was deposited on acetylene black to synthesize a composite Co/C by chemical reduction method.A platinumfree electrocatalyst Co-N/C(800) for oxygen reduction reaction(ORR) was synthesized by mixing ...Metallic cobalt was deposited on acetylene black to synthesize a composite Co/C by chemical reduction method.A platinumfree electrocatalyst Co-N/C(800) for oxygen reduction reaction(ORR) was synthesized by mixing the composite Co/C with urea and heat-treating at 800℃.The results from linear sweep voltammograms indicated that the Co-N/C(800) is active to ORR.Theβ-Co and cobalt oxides are not the active site of the catalyst Co-N/C.However,the existence of cobalt facilitated the modification of nitrogen to carbon black and led to the formation of active site of catalyst Co-N/C(800).展开更多
A non-precious metal catalyst CoMe]C for the oxygen reduction reaction is prepared by heat-treating a mechanical mixture of carbon black, melamine and cobalt chloride at 600 under nitrogen atmosphere for 2 h. The cata...A non-precious metal catalyst CoMe]C for the oxygen reduction reaction is prepared by heat-treating a mechanical mixture of carbon black, melamine and cobalt chloride at 600 under nitrogen atmosphere for 2 h. The catalytic activity of CoMe/C is characterized by the electrochemical linear sweep voltammetry technique. The onset reduction potential of the catalyst is 0.55 V (vs. SCE) at a scanning rate of 5 mV/s in 0.5 mol/L H2SO4 solution. The formation of the ORR activity sites of CoMe/C is facilitated by metallic β- cobalt.展开更多
Significant progress has been made in the development of non-precious metal electrocatalysts (NPMEs) during the past decade. Correspondingly, there is an urgent demand for an appropriate measurement method to be est...Significant progress has been made in the development of non-precious metal electrocatalysts (NPMEs) during the past decade. Correspondingly, there is an urgent demand for an appropriate measurement method to be established for the reliable evaluation of NPMEs. In this study, platinum and graphite counter electrodes were used to investigate the impact of counter electrode material on the accelerated durability testing (ADT) of NPMEs in acidic medium. Platinum used as the coun- ter electrode in a traditional three-electrode electrochemical cell was found to dissolve in acidic medium and re-deposit on NPME coated on the working electrode during ADT. Such re-deposition causes the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) performance of NPMEs to remarkably improve, and thus will seriously mislead our judgment of NPMEs if we are unaware of it. The phenomenon can be avoided using a graphite counter electrode.展开更多
The pyrolyzed carbon supported ferrum polypyrrole (Fe-N/C) catalysts are synthesized with or without selected dopants, p-toluenesulfonic acid (TsOH), by a facile thermal annealing approach at desired temperature f...The pyrolyzed carbon supported ferrum polypyrrole (Fe-N/C) catalysts are synthesized with or without selected dopants, p-toluenesulfonic acid (TsOH), by a facile thermal annealing approach at desired temperature for optimizing their activity for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in O2-saturated 0.1 mol/L KOH solution. The electrochemical techniques such as cyclic voltammetry (CV) and rotating disk electrode (RDE) are employed with the Koutecky-Levich theory to quantitatively obtain the ORR kinetic constants and the reaction mechanisms. It is found that catalysts doped with TsOH show significantly improved ORR activity relative to the TsOH-free one. The average electron transfer numbers for the catalyzed ORR are determined to be 3.899 and 3.098, respectively, for the catalysts with and without TsOH-doping. The heat-treatment is found to be a necessary step for catalyst activity improvement, and the catalyst pyrolyzed at 600℃ gives the best ORR activity. An onset potential and the potential at the current density of -1.5 mA/cm2 for TsOH-doped catalyst after pyrolysis are 30 mV and 170 mV, which are more positive than those without pyrolized. Furthermore, the catalyst doped with TsOH shows higher tolerance to methanol compared with commercial Pt/C catalyst in 0.1 mol/L KOH. To understand this TsOH doping and pyrolyzed effect, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) are used to characterize these catalysts in terms of their structure and composition. XPS results indicate that the pyrrolic-N groups are the most active sites, a finding that is supported by the correspondence between changes in pyridinic-N content and ORR activity that occur with changing temperature. Sulfur species are also structurally bound to carbon in the forms of C-Sn-C, an additional beneficial factor for the ORR.展开更多
Zn-air batteries(ZABs),especially the secondary batteries,have engrossed a great interest because of its high specific energy,economical and high safety.However,due to the insufficient activity and stability of bifunc...Zn-air batteries(ZABs),especially the secondary batteries,have engrossed a great interest because of its high specific energy,economical and high safety.However,due to the insufficient activity and stability of bifunctional electrocatalysts for air-cathode oxygen reduction reaction(ORR)and oxygen evolution reaction(OER)processes,the practical application of rechargeable ZABs is seriously hindered.In the effort of developing high active,stable and cost-effective electrocatalysts,transition metal nitrides(TMNs)have been regarded as the candidates due to their high conductivity,strong corrosion-resistance,and bifunctional catalytic performance.In this paper,the research progress in TMNs-based material as ORR and OER electrocatalysts for ZABs is discussed with respect to their synthesis,chemical/physical characterization,and performance validation/optimization.The surface/interface nanoengineering strategies such as defect engineering,support binding,heteroatom introduction,crystal plane orientation,interface construction and small size effect,the physical and chemical properties of TMNs-based electrocatalysts are emphasized with respect to their structures/morphologies,composition,electrical conductivity,specific surface area,chemical stability and corrosion resistance.The challenges of TMNs-based materials as bifunctional air-cathode electrocatalysts in practical application are evaluated,and numerous research guidelines to solve these problems are put forward for facilitating further research and development.展开更多
Electrosynthesis of hydrogen peroxide(H2O2)is an on-site method that enables independent distribution applications in many fields due to its small-scale and sustainable features.The crucial point remains developing hi...Electrosynthesis of hydrogen peroxide(H2O2)is an on-site method that enables independent distribution applications in many fields due to its small-scale and sustainable features.The crucial point remains developing highly active,selective and cost-effective electrocatalysts.The electrosynthesis of H2O2 in acidic media is more practical owing to its stability and no need for further purification.We herein report a phosphorus and selenium tuning Co-based non-precious catalyst(CoPSe)toward two-electron oxygen reduction reaction(2e–ORR)to produce H2O2 in acidic media.The starting point of using both P and Se is finding a balance between strong ORR activity of CoSe and weak activity of CoP.The results demonstrated that the CoPSe catalyst exhibited the optimized 2e–ORR activity compared with CoP and CoSe.It disclosed an onset potential of 0.68 V and the H2O2 selectivity 76%-85%in a wide potential range(0–0.5 V).Notably,the CoPSe catalyst overcomes a significant challenge of a narrow-range selectivity for transitionmetal based 2e–ORR catalysts.Finally,combining with electro-Fenton reaction,an on-site system was constructed for efficient degradation of organic pollutants.This work provides a promising non-precious Co-based electrocatalyst for the electrosynthesis of H2O2 in acidic media.展开更多
The oxygen reduction/evolution reactions(ORR/OER) are a key electrode process in the development of electrochemical energy conversion and storage devices,such as metal-air batteries and reversible fuel cells.The searc...The oxygen reduction/evolution reactions(ORR/OER) are a key electrode process in the development of electrochemical energy conversion and storage devices,such as metal-air batteries and reversible fuel cells.The search for low-cost high-performance nanocarbon-based metal-free and non-precious metal bifunctional electrocatalysts for ORR/OER alternatives to the widely-used noble metal-based catalysts is a research focus.This review aims to outline the opportunities and available options for these nanocarbon-based bifunctional electrocatalysts.Through discussion of some current scientific issues,we summarize the development and breakthroughs of these electrocatalysts.Then we provide our perspectives on these issues and suggestions for some areas in the further work.We hope that this review can improve the interest in nanocarbon-based metal-free and non-precious metal bifunctional electrocatalysts for ORR/OER.展开更多
Non-precious metal single-atom catalysts(NPM-SACs)with unique electronic structures and coordination environments have gained much attention in electrocatalysis owing to their low cost,high atomic utilization,and high...Non-precious metal single-atom catalysts(NPM-SACs)with unique electronic structures and coordination environments have gained much attention in electrocatalysis owing to their low cost,high atomic utilization,and high performance.NPM-SACs on carbon support(NPM-SACs/CS)are promising because of the carbon substrate with a large surface area,excellent electrical conductivity,and high chemical stability.This review provides an overview of recent developments in NPM-SACs/CS for the electrocatalytic field.First,the state-of-the-art synthesis methods and advanced characterization techniques of NPM-SACs/CS are discussed in detail.Then,the structural adjustment strategy of NPM-SACs/CS for optimizing electrocatalytic performance is introduced concisely.Furthermore,we provide a comprehensive summary of recent advances in developing NPM-SACs/CS for important electrochemical reactions,including carbon dioxide reduction reaction,hydrogen evolution reaction,oxygen evolution reaction,oxygen reduction reaction,and nitrogen reduction reaction.In the end,the existing challenges and future opportunities of NPM-SACs/CS in the electrocatalytic field are highlighted.展开更多
We present a facile and versatile method for introducing various non-precious metal nanoparticles (NPs) in small nanotubes, such as single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs), including 3d-metals (V, Mn, Fe and Co),...We present a facile and versatile method for introducing various non-precious metal nanoparticles (NPs) in small nanotubes, such as single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs), including 3d-metals (V, Mn, Fe and Co), 4d-metals (Mo), and 5d-metals (W). This is realized by oxidizing encapsulated cycloalkene metal carbonyl complexes below their sublimation temperatures. This novel technique is significant because it avoids the diffusion and deposition of metal species on the outer walls of nanotubes, which has been challenging to achieve using the conventional filling methods. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), high angle annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), Raman, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analyses revealed high filling efficiencies (〉 95% SWNTs filled with metal NPs). This method also provides a unique approach to fabricate highly dispersed and uniform SWNT-metal nanoparficle encapsulates with lower valence states, which are often not stable in the bulk.展开更多
Taking advantage of the nitrogen(N)-participation and large surface area of N-doped carbon nanocages(NCNCs),the Co Ox nanocrystals are conveniently immobilized onto the NCNCs with high dispersion.The Co Ox/NCNCs hybri...Taking advantage of the nitrogen(N)-participation and large surface area of N-doped carbon nanocages(NCNCs),the Co Ox nanocrystals are conveniently immobilized onto the NCNCs with high dispersion.The Co Ox/NCNCs hybrid exists in the mixed valence with predominant Co O over Co3O4 and demonstrates superb oxygen reduction reaction activity and stability remaining^94%current density even after operation over 100 h.These results suggest a promising strategy to develop advanced electrocatalysts with the novel NCNCs or even beyond.展开更多
Binuclear iron phthalocyanineeduced graphene oxide(bi-Fe Pc/RGO) nanocomposite with good electrocatalytic activity for ORR in alkaline medium was prepared in one step. High angle annular dark field image scanning tran...Binuclear iron phthalocyanineeduced graphene oxide(bi-Fe Pc/RGO) nanocomposite with good electrocatalytic activity for ORR in alkaline medium was prepared in one step. High angle annular dark field image scanning transmission electron microscopy(HAADF-STEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy element mapping results show bi-Fe Pc was uniformly distributed on RGO. An obvious cathodic peak located at about-0.23 V(vs. SCE) in CV and an onset potential of-0.004 V(vs. SCE) in LSV indicate the as-prepared bi-Fe Pc/RGO nanocomposite possesses high activity which is closed to Pt/C for ORR. The ORR on bi-Fe Pc/RGO nanocomposite follows four-electron transfer pathway in alkaline medium. Compared with Pt/C, there is only a slight decrease(about 0.02 V vs. SCE) for bi-Fe Pc/RGO nanocomposite when the methanol exists. The excellent activity and methanol tolerance in alkaline solutions proves that bi-Fe Pc/RGO nanocomposite could be considered as a promising cathode catalyst for alkaline fuel cells.展开更多
High cost has undoubtedly become the biggest obstacle to the commercialization of proton exchange membrane fuel cells(PEMFCs),in which Pt-based catalysts employed in the cathodic catalyst layer(CCL)account for the maj...High cost has undoubtedly become the biggest obstacle to the commercialization of proton exchange membrane fuel cells(PEMFCs),in which Pt-based catalysts employed in the cathodic catalyst layer(CCL)account for the major portion of the cost.Although nonprecious metal catalysts(NPMCs)show appreciable activity and stability in the oxygen reduction reaction(ORR),the performance of fuel cells based on NPMCs remains unsatisfactory compared to those using Pt-based CCL.Therefore,most studies on NPMC-based fuel cells focus on developing highly active catalysts rather than facilitating oxygen transport.In this work,the oxygen transport behavior in CCLs based on highly active Fe-N-C catalysts is comprehensively explored through the elaborate design of two types of membrane electrode structures,one containing low-Pt-based CCL and NPMCbased dummy catalyst layer(DCL)and the other containing only the NPMC-based CCL.Using Zn-N-C based DCLs of different thickness,the bulk oxygen transport resistance at the unit thickness in NPMC-based CCL was quantified via the limiting current method combined with linear fitting analysis.Then,the local and bulk resistances in NPMC-based CCLs were quantified via the limiting current method and scanning electron microscopy,respectively.Results show that the ratios of local and bulk oxygen transport resistances in NPMCbased CCL are 80%and 20%,respectively,and that an enhancement of local oxygen transport is critical to greatly improve the performance of NPMC-based PEMFCs.Furthermore,the activity of active sites per unit in NPMCbased CCLs was determined to be lower than that in the Pt-based CCL,thus explaining worse cell performance of NPMC-based membrane electrode assemblys(MEAs).It is believed that the development of NPMC-based PEMFCs should proceed not only through the design of catalysts with higher activity but also through the improvement of oxygen transport in the CCL.展开更多
Developing non-precious electrocatalysts with high-efficiency hydrogen evolution reaction(HER)activity for hydrogen production at all pH values is crucial for the application and promotion of water electrolysis.Herein...Developing non-precious electrocatalysts with high-efficiency hydrogen evolution reaction(HER)activity for hydrogen production at all pH values is crucial for the application and promotion of water electrolysis.Herein,a unique structure of nickel-cobalt(Ni–Co)nanoparticles@Ni0.19Co0.26P nanowires core/shell arrays on Ni foam as a pH-universal electrocatalyst for hydrogen evolution is synthesized by a simple hydrothermal process and thermal reduction treatment.The morphological analysis reveals that numerous Ni–Co nanoparticles are densely packed inside the hollow interior of Ni0.19Co0.26P nanowires.This unique structure integrates the advantages of high surface area from the nanowires and enhanced electronic conductivity from the Ni–Co nanoparticles,effectively addressing the conventional issue of slow charge transfer rate in 3D metal-based compounds,which is typically caused by a long transfer distance.The electrocatalysts provide an excellent hydrogen evolution reaction performance in alkaline,neutral,and acidic media with an overpotential of 35,36,and 23 mV to reach the current density of 10 mA/cm2,respectively.This study highlights the potential of Ni–Co nanoparticles@Ni0.19Co0.26P nanowires as a cost-effective and pH-universal HER electrocatalyst,offering promising prospects for sustainable hydrogen production.展开更多
Single-atom catalysts for alkyne semi-hydrogenation have been extensively investigated due to their high metal utilization and improved olefin selectivity.However,their reactivity is hindered by the sluggish activatio...Single-atom catalysts for alkyne semi-hydrogenation have been extensively investigated due to their high metal utilization and improved olefin selectivity.However,their reactivity is hindered by the sluggish activation of reactants on isolated sites.Herein,a non-precise metal catalyst consisting of Ni-Cu hetero-diatomic pairs was prepared using a sequential deposition method.The diatomic sites catalyst exhibited an unprecedented activity among non-precious catalysts with over 98%conversion and 77 molC2H2 molmetal-1 h-1 at 180℃,whereas the single-atom catalysts of Cu/C and Ni/C were almost inert under the same conditions.Experimental and theoretical results revealed the crucial diatomic synergy between the Ni-Cu pairs,wherein acetylene was adsorbed on Ni sites and hydrogen was adsorbed on Cu sites,and the diatomic site enabled spontaneous desorption of ethylene.The superior activity of the diatomic catalyst was observed,resulting from the enhanced dominance of d-electrons of Ni near the Fermi level.The research demonstrates an approach to designing non-precise metal catalysts with extraordinary catalytic performance for alkyne hydrogenation.展开更多
Metal-support interaction(MSI) is crucial for fine-tuning the active-site structure of supported catalysts and enhancing performance.Here,we present an ammonia-directed reactive gas-metal-support interaction(RGMSI),in...Metal-support interaction(MSI) is crucial for fine-tuning the active-site structure of supported catalysts and enhancing performance.Here,we present an ammonia-directed reactive gas-metal-support interaction(RGMSI),in which NH3 reduces ZnO and assembles an anti-perovskite Ni3ZnN structure with interstitial nitrogen,significantly boosting hydrogenation efficiency.Nitrogen incorporation expands the lattice parameter,increasing the(111) lattice spacing from 2.04Å in Ni to 2.18Å in Ni3ZnN,with an extended Ni-Ni interatomic distance from 2.49Å to 2.65Å.Additionally,Ni-N coordination shifts the d-band center downward and induces electron deficiency in Ni via charge transfer.These modifications optimize reactant adsorption on the tailored Ni3ZnN structure compared to Ni,leading to a remarkable increase in 1,3-butadiene hydrogenation selectivity from 30.0 % to 92.9 %,along with an enhanced TOF from 0.067 s-1 to 0.079 s-1.These findings highlight RGMSI as a versatile and effective strategy for designing supported metal catalysts,offering new insights into selective hydrogenation catalysis.展开更多
This study is aimed at the demand for high-performance energy storage systems in flexible wearable electronic devices,focusing on the development of cathode catalysts for flexible zinc-air batteries.Aiming at the prob...This study is aimed at the demand for high-performance energy storage systems in flexible wearable electronic devices,focusing on the development of cathode catalysts for flexible zinc-air batteries.Aiming at the problems of high cost and resource constraints of traditional noble metal catalysts,this study designed a nonnoble metal composite catalyst(Cu3-Co1/AC)based on copper-cobalt oxide/activated carbon and proposed an innovative“step-by-step synthesis-dielectric barrier discharge plasma synergistic modification”preparation strategy.By systematically regulating the plasma treatment power,time,and atmosphere,the influence of this modification technology on the microstructure,surface chemical state,and electrochemical performance of the catalyst was deeply explored.The results showed that the optimal modification condition was treated under oxygen atmosphere and 50 W for 10 min.This condition effectively introduces abundant oxygen vacancy defects into the catalyst,optimizes the valence distribution of Cu+/Cu2+and Co2+/Co3+,and strengthens the interface coupling between metal oxide and carbon support.The obtained Cu3-Co1/AC-DBD catalyst shows excellent bifunctional catalytic activity of ORR and OER,and the obtained bifunctional potential difference(ΔE)is about 0.866 V.The assembled flexible zinc-air battery exhibited a high power density of 240 mW cm-2 and achieved long-cycle stable operation of more than 90 h at a current density of 5 mA cm-2.This work not only confirms the effectiveness and uniqueness of low-temperature plasma technology in controllable preparation and performance enhancement of nonnoble metal catalysts,but also provides a new solution for the development of low-cost,high-activity,and long-life flexible zinc-air battery cathode materials’solution and solid experimental foundation.展开更多
The development of efficient and robust non-precious metal electrocatalyst to drive the sluggish hydrogen oxidation reaction(HOR)is the key to the practical application of anion exchange membrane fuel cells(AEMFC),whi...The development of efficient and robust non-precious metal electrocatalyst to drive the sluggish hydrogen oxidation reaction(HOR)is the key to the practical application of anion exchange membrane fuel cells(AEMFC),which relies on the rational regulation of intermediates’binding strength.Herein,we reported a simple strategy to manipulate the adsorption energy of OH∗on electrocatalyst surface via engineering Ni/NbOx heterostructures with manageable oxygen vacancy(Ov).Theoretical calculations confirm that the electronic effect between Ni and NbOx could weaken the hydrogen adsorption on Ni,and the interfacial oxygen vacancy tailor hydroxide binding energy(OHBE).The optimized HBE and OHBE contribute to reduce formation energy of water during the alkaline HOR process.Furthermore,in situ Raman spectroscopy monitor the dynamic process that OH∗adsorbed on oxygen vacancy and react with adjacent H∗adsorbed Ni,confirming the vital role of OH∗for alkaline HOR process.As a result,the optimal Ni/NbOx exhibits a remarkable intrinsic activity with a specific activity of 0.036mA/cm2,which is 4-fold than that of pristine Ni counterpart and surpasses most non-precious electrocatalysts ever reported.展开更多
Efficient bifunctional oxygen electrocatalysts for ORR and OER are fundamental to the development of high performance metal-air batteries.Herein,a facile cost-efficient two-step pyrolysis strategy for the fabrication ...Efficient bifunctional oxygen electrocatalysts for ORR and OER are fundamental to the development of high performance metal-air batteries.Herein,a facile cost-efficient two-step pyrolysis strategy for the fabrication of a bifunctional oxygen electrocatalyst has been proposed.The efficient non-preciousmetal-based electrocatalyst,Fe/Fe3C@Fe-Nx-C consists of highly curved onion-like carbon shells that encapsulate Fe/Fe3C nanoparticles,distributed on an extensively porous graphitic carbon aerogel.The obtained Fe/Fe3C@Fe-Nx-C aerogel exhibited superb electrochemical activity,excellent durability,and high methanol tolerance.The experimental results indicated that the assembly of onion-like carbon shells with encapsulated Fe/Fe3C yielded highly curved carbon surfaces with abundant Fe-Nxactive sites,a porous structure,and enhanced electrocatalytic activity towards ORR and OER,hence displaying promising potential for application as an air cathode in rechargeable Zn-air batteries.The constructed Zn-air battery possessed an exceptional peak power density of~147 mW cm-2,outstanding cycling stability(200 cycles,1 h per cycle),and a small voltage gap of 0.87 V.This study offers valuable insights regarding the construction of low-cost and highly active bifunctional oxygen electrocatalysts for efficient air batteries.展开更多
Understanding of the oxygen reduction reaction(ORR)mechanism for single atom catalysts is pivotal for the rational design of non-precious metal cathode materials and the commercialization of fuel cells.Herein,a series...Understanding of the oxygen reduction reaction(ORR)mechanism for single atom catalysts is pivotal for the rational design of non-precious metal cathode materials and the commercialization of fuel cells.Herein,a series of non-precious metal electrocatalysts based on nitrogen-doped bimetallic(Fe and Co)carbide were modeled by density functional theory calculations to predict the corresponding reaction pathways.The study elucidated prior oxygen adsorption on the Fe atom in the dual site and the modifier role of Co atoms to tune the electronic structures of Fe.The reaction activity was highly correlated with the bimetallic center and the coordination environment of the adjacent nitrogen.Interestingly,the preadsorption of*OH resulted in the apparent change of metal atoms'electronic states with the d-band center shifting toward the Fermi level,thereby boosting reaction activity.The result should help promote the fundamental understanding of active sites in ORR catalysts and provide an effective approach to the design of highly efficient ORR catalysts on an atomic scale.展开更多
The development of highly efficient catalysts for cathodes remains an important objective of fuel cell research. Here, we report Co3O4 nanoparticles assembled on a polypyrrole/graphene oxide electrocatalyst (Co3O4/Pp...The development of highly efficient catalysts for cathodes remains an important objective of fuel cell research. Here, we report Co3O4 nanoparticles assembled on a polypyrrole/graphene oxide electrocatalyst (Co3O4/Ppy/GO) as an efficient catalyst for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in alkaline media. The catalyst was prepared via the hydrothermal reaction of Co2+ ions with Ppy-modified GO. The GO, Ppy/GO, and Co3O4/Ppy/GO were characterized using scanning electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The incorporation of Ppy into GO nanosheets resulted in the formation of a nitrogen-modified GO po-rous structure, which acted as an efficient electron-transport network for the ORR. With further anchoring of Co3O4 on Ppy/GO, the as-prepared Co3O4/Ppy/GO exhibited excellent ORR activity and followed a four-electron route mechanism for the ORR in alkaline solution. An onset potential of -0.10 V vs. a saturated calomel electrode and a diffusion limiting current density of 2.30 mA/cm^2 were achieved for the Co3O4/Ppy/GO catalyst heated at 800 ℃; these values are comparable to those for noble-metal-based Pt/C catalysts. Our work demonstrates that Co3O4/Ppy/GO is highly active for the ORR. Notably, the Ppy coupling effects between Co3O4 and GO provide a new route for the preparation of efficient non-precious electrocatalysts with hierarchical porous structures for fuel cell applications.展开更多
基金funded by the Third Stage Training of"211 Project"(No.S-09103) of ChinaNatural Science Foundation Project of Chongqing(No.CSTC2009BB6213)
摘要Metallic cobalt was deposited on acetylene black to synthesize a composite Co/C by chemical reduction method.A platinumfree electrocatalyst Co-N/C(800) for oxygen reduction reaction(ORR) was synthesized by mixing the composite Co/C with urea and heat-treating at 800℃.The results from linear sweep voltammograms indicated that the Co-N/C(800) is active to ORR.Theβ-Co and cobalt oxides are not the active site of the catalyst Co-N/C.However,the existence of cobalt facilitated the modification of nitrogen to carbon black and led to the formation of active site of catalyst Co-N/C(800).
基金supported by the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities (No. CDJXS12220002)the Specialized Research Fund for the Doctoral Program of Sichuan University of Science and Engineering (No. 2012RC16)+2 种基金the Opening Project of Key Laboratory of Green Catalysis of Sichuan Institutes of High Education (No. LYJ1206)the National Undergraduate Innovation Training Project (No. 1110611046)Discipline Construction Project of Sichuan University of Science and Engineering
摘要A non-precious metal catalyst CoMe]C for the oxygen reduction reaction is prepared by heat-treating a mechanical mixture of carbon black, melamine and cobalt chloride at 600 under nitrogen atmosphere for 2 h. The catalytic activity of CoMe/C is characterized by the electrochemical linear sweep voltammetry technique. The onset reduction potential of the catalyst is 0.55 V (vs. SCE) at a scanning rate of 5 mV/s in 0.5 mol/L H2SO4 solution. The formation of the ORR activity sites of CoMe/C is facilitated by metallic β- cobalt.
基金supported by the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(DUT15RC(3)001,DUT15ZD225)the Program for Liao-ning Excellent Talents in University(LR2015014)+1 种基金the Liaoning BaiQianWan Talents Program(201519)Dalian Excellent Young Scientific and Technological Talents(2015R006)
摘要Significant progress has been made in the development of non-precious metal electrocatalysts (NPMEs) during the past decade. Correspondingly, there is an urgent demand for an appropriate measurement method to be established for the reliable evaluation of NPMEs. In this study, platinum and graphite counter electrodes were used to investigate the impact of counter electrode material on the accelerated durability testing (ADT) of NPMEs in acidic medium. Platinum used as the coun- ter electrode in a traditional three-electrode electrochemical cell was found to dissolve in acidic medium and re-deposit on NPME coated on the working electrode during ADT. Such re-deposition causes the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) performance of NPMEs to remarkably improve, and thus will seriously mislead our judgment of NPMEs if we are unaware of it. The phenomenon can be avoided using a graphite counter electrode.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(91223202)the International Science&Technology Cooperation Program of China(No.2011DFA73410)+1 种基金Tsinghua University Initiative Scientific Research Program(No.20101081907)the National Key Basic Research Program of China-973 Program(No.2011CB013102)
摘要The pyrolyzed carbon supported ferrum polypyrrole (Fe-N/C) catalysts are synthesized with or without selected dopants, p-toluenesulfonic acid (TsOH), by a facile thermal annealing approach at desired temperature for optimizing their activity for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in O2-saturated 0.1 mol/L KOH solution. The electrochemical techniques such as cyclic voltammetry (CV) and rotating disk electrode (RDE) are employed with the Koutecky-Levich theory to quantitatively obtain the ORR kinetic constants and the reaction mechanisms. It is found that catalysts doped with TsOH show significantly improved ORR activity relative to the TsOH-free one. The average electron transfer numbers for the catalyzed ORR are determined to be 3.899 and 3.098, respectively, for the catalysts with and without TsOH-doping. The heat-treatment is found to be a necessary step for catalyst activity improvement, and the catalyst pyrolyzed at 600℃ gives the best ORR activity. An onset potential and the potential at the current density of -1.5 mA/cm2 for TsOH-doped catalyst after pyrolysis are 30 mV and 170 mV, which are more positive than those without pyrolized. Furthermore, the catalyst doped with TsOH shows higher tolerance to methanol compared with commercial Pt/C catalyst in 0.1 mol/L KOH. To understand this TsOH doping and pyrolyzed effect, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) are used to characterize these catalysts in terms of their structure and composition. XPS results indicate that the pyrrolic-N groups are the most active sites, a finding that is supported by the correspondence between changes in pyridinic-N content and ORR activity that occur with changing temperature. Sulfur species are also structurally bound to carbon in the forms of C-Sn-C, an additional beneficial factor for the ORR.
基金financial support from the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2017YFB0102900)
摘要Zn-air batteries(ZABs),especially the secondary batteries,have engrossed a great interest because of its high specific energy,economical and high safety.However,due to the insufficient activity and stability of bifunctional electrocatalysts for air-cathode oxygen reduction reaction(ORR)and oxygen evolution reaction(OER)processes,the practical application of rechargeable ZABs is seriously hindered.In the effort of developing high active,stable and cost-effective electrocatalysts,transition metal nitrides(TMNs)have been regarded as the candidates due to their high conductivity,strong corrosion-resistance,and bifunctional catalytic performance.In this paper,the research progress in TMNs-based material as ORR and OER electrocatalysts for ZABs is discussed with respect to their synthesis,chemical/physical characterization,and performance validation/optimization.The surface/interface nanoengineering strategies such as defect engineering,support binding,heteroatom introduction,crystal plane orientation,interface construction and small size effect,the physical and chemical properties of TMNs-based electrocatalysts are emphasized with respect to their structures/morphologies,composition,electrical conductivity,specific surface area,chemical stability and corrosion resistance.The challenges of TMNs-based materials as bifunctional air-cathode electrocatalysts in practical application are evaluated,and numerous research guidelines to solve these problems are put forward for facilitating further research and development.
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.21805052,21974031,2278092)Science and Technology Research Project of Guangzhou(Nos.202102020787 and 202201000002)+2 种基金Department of Science&Technology of Guangdong Province(No.2022A156)Key Discipline of Materials Science and Engineering,Bureau of Education of Guangzhou(No.20225546)the Innovation&Entrepreneurship for the College Students of Guangzhou University(No.XJ202111078175).
摘要Electrosynthesis of hydrogen peroxide(H2O2)is an on-site method that enables independent distribution applications in many fields due to its small-scale and sustainable features.The crucial point remains developing highly active,selective and cost-effective electrocatalysts.The electrosynthesis of H2O2 in acidic media is more practical owing to its stability and no need for further purification.We herein report a phosphorus and selenium tuning Co-based non-precious catalyst(CoPSe)toward two-electron oxygen reduction reaction(2e–ORR)to produce H2O2 in acidic media.The starting point of using both P and Se is finding a balance between strong ORR activity of CoSe and weak activity of CoP.The results demonstrated that the CoPSe catalyst exhibited the optimized 2e–ORR activity compared with CoP and CoSe.It disclosed an onset potential of 0.68 V and the H2O2 selectivity 76%-85%in a wide potential range(0–0.5 V).Notably,the CoPSe catalyst overcomes a significant challenge of a narrow-range selectivity for transitionmetal based 2e–ORR catalysts.Finally,combining with electro-Fenton reaction,an on-site system was constructed for efficient degradation of organic pollutants.This work provides a promising non-precious Co-based electrocatalyst for the electrosynthesis of H2O2 in acidic media.
基金the financial support provided by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.51932005 and 21773269)the Joint Research Fund LiaoningShenyang National Laboratory for Materials Science(Grant No.20180510047)Liao Ning Revitalization Talents Program(XLYC1807175)。
摘要The oxygen reduction/evolution reactions(ORR/OER) are a key electrode process in the development of electrochemical energy conversion and storage devices,such as metal-air batteries and reversible fuel cells.The search for low-cost high-performance nanocarbon-based metal-free and non-precious metal bifunctional electrocatalysts for ORR/OER alternatives to the widely-used noble metal-based catalysts is a research focus.This review aims to outline the opportunities and available options for these nanocarbon-based bifunctional electrocatalysts.Through discussion of some current scientific issues,we summarize the development and breakthroughs of these electrocatalysts.Then we provide our perspectives on these issues and suggestions for some areas in the further work.We hope that this review can improve the interest in nanocarbon-based metal-free and non-precious metal bifunctional electrocatalysts for ORR/OER.
基金support from the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(2022M711553).Y.W.would like to acknowledge the support from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(22171132)the Innovation Fund from Nanjing University(020514913419)+5 种基金the Program for Innovative Talents and Entrepreneurs in Jiangsu(020513006012 and 020513006014),and the National Key R&D Program of China(2002YFB3607000).W.Z.would like to acknowledge the support from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(22176086)Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province(BK20210189)State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse(PCRR-ZZ-202106)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(021114380183,021114380189 and 021114380199)the Research Funds from the Nanjing Science and Technology Innovation Project for Chinese Scholars Studying Abroad(13006003)the Research Funds from Frontiers Science Center for Critical Earth Material Cycling of Nanjing University,and Research Funds for Jiangsu Distinguished Professor.Y.L.would like to thank the support from the Washington State University startup fund.
摘要Non-precious metal single-atom catalysts(NPM-SACs)with unique electronic structures and coordination environments have gained much attention in electrocatalysis owing to their low cost,high atomic utilization,and high performance.NPM-SACs on carbon support(NPM-SACs/CS)are promising because of the carbon substrate with a large surface area,excellent electrical conductivity,and high chemical stability.This review provides an overview of recent developments in NPM-SACs/CS for the electrocatalytic field.First,the state-of-the-art synthesis methods and advanced characterization techniques of NPM-SACs/CS are discussed in detail.Then,the structural adjustment strategy of NPM-SACs/CS for optimizing electrocatalytic performance is introduced concisely.Furthermore,we provide a comprehensive summary of recent advances in developing NPM-SACs/CS for important electrochemical reactions,including carbon dioxide reduction reaction,hydrogen evolution reaction,oxygen evolution reaction,oxygen reduction reaction,and nitrogen reduction reaction.In the end,the existing challenges and future opportunities of NPM-SACs/CS in the electrocatalytic field are highlighted.
摘要We present a facile and versatile method for introducing various non-precious metal nanoparticles (NPs) in small nanotubes, such as single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs), including 3d-metals (V, Mn, Fe and Co), 4d-metals (Mo), and 5d-metals (W). This is realized by oxidizing encapsulated cycloalkene metal carbonyl complexes below their sublimation temperatures. This novel technique is significant because it avoids the diffusion and deposition of metal species on the outer walls of nanotubes, which has been challenging to achieve using the conventional filling methods. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), high angle annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), Raman, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analyses revealed high filling efficiencies (〉 95% SWNTs filled with metal NPs). This method also provides a unique approach to fabricate highly dispersed and uniform SWNT-metal nanoparficle encapsulates with lower valence states, which are often not stable in the bulk.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(51232003,21473089,21373108,21173115)the National Basic Research Program of China(2013CB932902)+2 种基金Jiangsu Province Science and Technology Support Project(BE2012159)Suzhou Science and Technology Plan projects(ZXG2013025)National Science Fund for Talent Training in Basic Science(J1103310)
摘要Taking advantage of the nitrogen(N)-participation and large surface area of N-doped carbon nanocages(NCNCs),the Co Ox nanocrystals are conveniently immobilized onto the NCNCs with high dispersion.The Co Ox/NCNCs hybrid exists in the mixed valence with predominant Co O over Co3O4 and demonstrates superb oxygen reduction reaction activity and stability remaining^94%current density even after operation over 100 h.These results suggest a promising strategy to develop advanced electrocatalysts with the novel NCNCs or even beyond.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (21275014, 21375005)the Excellent Young Scientists Fund of NSFC (21322501)+2 种基金the Importation and Development of High-Caliber Talents Project of Beijing Municipal Institutions (CIT& TCD20140309)the Program for New Century Excellent Talents in University (NCET-12-0603)the Beijing Natural Science Foundation Program and Scientific Research Key Program of the Beijing Municipal Commission of Education (KZ201310005001)
摘要Binuclear iron phthalocyanineeduced graphene oxide(bi-Fe Pc/RGO) nanocomposite with good electrocatalytic activity for ORR in alkaline medium was prepared in one step. High angle annular dark field image scanning transmission electron microscopy(HAADF-STEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy element mapping results show bi-Fe Pc was uniformly distributed on RGO. An obvious cathodic peak located at about-0.23 V(vs. SCE) in CV and an onset potential of-0.004 V(vs. SCE) in LSV indicate the as-prepared bi-Fe Pc/RGO nanocomposite possesses high activity which is closed to Pt/C for ORR. The ORR on bi-Fe Pc/RGO nanocomposite follows four-electron transfer pathway in alkaline medium. Compared with Pt/C, there is only a slight decrease(about 0.02 V vs. SCE) for bi-Fe Pc/RGO nanocomposite when the methanol exists. The excellent activity and methanol tolerance in alkaline solutions proves that bi-Fe Pc/RGO nanocomposite could be considered as a promising cathode catalyst for alkaline fuel cells.
基金the National Key R&D Program of China(Grant No.2021YFB4001303)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.21975157)。
摘要High cost has undoubtedly become the biggest obstacle to the commercialization of proton exchange membrane fuel cells(PEMFCs),in which Pt-based catalysts employed in the cathodic catalyst layer(CCL)account for the major portion of the cost.Although nonprecious metal catalysts(NPMCs)show appreciable activity and stability in the oxygen reduction reaction(ORR),the performance of fuel cells based on NPMCs remains unsatisfactory compared to those using Pt-based CCL.Therefore,most studies on NPMC-based fuel cells focus on developing highly active catalysts rather than facilitating oxygen transport.In this work,the oxygen transport behavior in CCLs based on highly active Fe-N-C catalysts is comprehensively explored through the elaborate design of two types of membrane electrode structures,one containing low-Pt-based CCL and NPMCbased dummy catalyst layer(DCL)and the other containing only the NPMC-based CCL.Using Zn-N-C based DCLs of different thickness,the bulk oxygen transport resistance at the unit thickness in NPMC-based CCL was quantified via the limiting current method combined with linear fitting analysis.Then,the local and bulk resistances in NPMC-based CCLs were quantified via the limiting current method and scanning electron microscopy,respectively.Results show that the ratios of local and bulk oxygen transport resistances in NPMCbased CCL are 80%and 20%,respectively,and that an enhancement of local oxygen transport is critical to greatly improve the performance of NPMC-based PEMFCs.Furthermore,the activity of active sites per unit in NPMCbased CCLs was determined to be lower than that in the Pt-based CCL,thus explaining worse cell performance of NPMC-based membrane electrode assemblys(MEAs).It is believed that the development of NPMC-based PEMFCs should proceed not only through the design of catalysts with higher activity but also through the improvement of oxygen transport in the CCL.
基金financially supported by a Special Fund(Climbing Plan)for Guangdong Province's Science and Technology Innovation Strategy in 2024(No.Pdjh2024b351)University Engineering Technology Center of Guangdong(No.2022GCZX007)+4 种基金Inorganic Optical Functional Materials and Application Innovation Team of Guangdong(No.2023KCXTD033)Department of Education of Guangdong Province(No.2021KQNCX087)The Natural Science Foundation of China(No.42307369)The University Key Laboratory of Guangdong(No.2024KSYS021)Scientific Research Fund of Hunan Provincial Education Department(No.22B0864).
摘要Developing non-precious electrocatalysts with high-efficiency hydrogen evolution reaction(HER)activity for hydrogen production at all pH values is crucial for the application and promotion of water electrolysis.Herein,a unique structure of nickel-cobalt(Ni–Co)nanoparticles@Ni0.19Co0.26P nanowires core/shell arrays on Ni foam as a pH-universal electrocatalyst for hydrogen evolution is synthesized by a simple hydrothermal process and thermal reduction treatment.The morphological analysis reveals that numerous Ni–Co nanoparticles are densely packed inside the hollow interior of Ni0.19Co0.26P nanowires.This unique structure integrates the advantages of high surface area from the nanowires and enhanced electronic conductivity from the Ni–Co nanoparticles,effectively addressing the conventional issue of slow charge transfer rate in 3D metal-based compounds,which is typically caused by a long transfer distance.The electrocatalysts provide an excellent hydrogen evolution reaction performance in alkaline,neutral,and acidic media with an overpotential of 35,36,and 23 mV to reach the current density of 10 mA/cm2,respectively.This study highlights the potential of Ni–Co nanoparticles@Ni0.19Co0.26P nanowires as a cost-effective and pH-universal HER electrocatalyst,offering promising prospects for sustainable hydrogen production.
基金supported by the National Key R&D Program of China(Grant No.2021YFA1501803)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(NSFC,Grant No.21978148&52206156)。
摘要Single-atom catalysts for alkyne semi-hydrogenation have been extensively investigated due to their high metal utilization and improved olefin selectivity.However,their reactivity is hindered by the sluggish activation of reactants on isolated sites.Herein,a non-precise metal catalyst consisting of Ni-Cu hetero-diatomic pairs was prepared using a sequential deposition method.The diatomic sites catalyst exhibited an unprecedented activity among non-precious catalysts with over 98%conversion and 77 molC2H2 molmetal-1 h-1 at 180℃,whereas the single-atom catalysts of Cu/C and Ni/C were almost inert under the same conditions.Experimental and theoretical results revealed the crucial diatomic synergy between the Ni-Cu pairs,wherein acetylene was adsorbed on Ni sites and hydrogen was adsorbed on Cu sites,and the diatomic site enabled spontaneous desorption of ethylene.The superior activity of the diatomic catalyst was observed,resulting from the enhanced dominance of d-electrons of Ni near the Fermi level.The research demonstrates an approach to designing non-precise metal catalysts with extraordinary catalytic performance for alkyne hydrogenation.
基金the financial support provided by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Nos.22072164,22472180,22002173)Energy Revolution S&T Program of Yulin Innovation Institute of Clean Energy (No.E411030705)+2 种基金Natural Science Foundation of Liaoning Province (No.2022-MS004)China Postdoctoral Science Foundation (No.2020M680999)the Research Fund of Shenyang National Laboratory for Materials Science。
摘要Metal-support interaction(MSI) is crucial for fine-tuning the active-site structure of supported catalysts and enhancing performance.Here,we present an ammonia-directed reactive gas-metal-support interaction(RGMSI),in which NH3 reduces ZnO and assembles an anti-perovskite Ni3ZnN structure with interstitial nitrogen,significantly boosting hydrogenation efficiency.Nitrogen incorporation expands the lattice parameter,increasing the(111) lattice spacing from 2.04Å in Ni to 2.18Å in Ni3ZnN,with an extended Ni-Ni interatomic distance from 2.49Å to 2.65Å.Additionally,Ni-N coordination shifts the d-band center downward and induces electron deficiency in Ni via charge transfer.These modifications optimize reactant adsorption on the tailored Ni3ZnN structure compared to Ni,leading to a remarkable increase in 1,3-butadiene hydrogenation selectivity from 30.0 % to 92.9 %,along with an enhanced TOF from 0.067 s-1 to 0.079 s-1.These findings highlight RGMSI as a versatile and effective strategy for designing supported metal catalysts,offering new insights into selective hydrogenation catalysis.
基金supported by the Natural Science Foundation of China(NSFC,Grant 22109126)Shaanxi Province key research and development plan item(Grant 2024CY2-GJHX-72)+2 种基金Yulin City science and technology plan project(Grant 2023-CXY-189)Key Laboratory of Coal Resources Exploration and Comprehensive Utilization,Ministry of Land Resources(Grant SMDZ-KF2024-3)Shaanxi Province Key Point Research and Development Project(Grant 2022GY-378).
摘要This study is aimed at the demand for high-performance energy storage systems in flexible wearable electronic devices,focusing on the development of cathode catalysts for flexible zinc-air batteries.Aiming at the problems of high cost and resource constraints of traditional noble metal catalysts,this study designed a nonnoble metal composite catalyst(Cu3-Co1/AC)based on copper-cobalt oxide/activated carbon and proposed an innovative“step-by-step synthesis-dielectric barrier discharge plasma synergistic modification”preparation strategy.By systematically regulating the plasma treatment power,time,and atmosphere,the influence of this modification technology on the microstructure,surface chemical state,and electrochemical performance of the catalyst was deeply explored.The results showed that the optimal modification condition was treated under oxygen atmosphere and 50 W for 10 min.This condition effectively introduces abundant oxygen vacancy defects into the catalyst,optimizes the valence distribution of Cu+/Cu2+and Co2+/Co3+,and strengthens the interface coupling between metal oxide and carbon support.The obtained Cu3-Co1/AC-DBD catalyst shows excellent bifunctional catalytic activity of ORR and OER,and the obtained bifunctional potential difference(ΔE)is about 0.866 V.The assembled flexible zinc-air battery exhibited a high power density of 240 mW cm-2 and achieved long-cycle stable operation of more than 90 h at a current density of 5 mA cm-2.This work not only confirms the effectiveness and uniqueness of low-temperature plasma technology in controllable preparation and performance enhancement of nonnoble metal catalysts,but also provides a new solution for the development of low-cost,high-activity,and long-life flexible zinc-air battery cathode materials’solution and solid experimental foundation.
基金supported by Jilin Province Science and Technology Development Program(Nos.20200201001JC,20210502002ZP,20230101367JC,20220301011GX)Jilin Province Science and Technology Major Project(No.222648GX0105103875).
摘要The development of efficient and robust non-precious metal electrocatalyst to drive the sluggish hydrogen oxidation reaction(HOR)is the key to the practical application of anion exchange membrane fuel cells(AEMFC),which relies on the rational regulation of intermediates’binding strength.Herein,we reported a simple strategy to manipulate the adsorption energy of OH∗on electrocatalyst surface via engineering Ni/NbOx heterostructures with manageable oxygen vacancy(Ov).Theoretical calculations confirm that the electronic effect between Ni and NbOx could weaken the hydrogen adsorption on Ni,and the interfacial oxygen vacancy tailor hydroxide binding energy(OHBE).The optimized HBE and OHBE contribute to reduce formation energy of water during the alkaline HOR process.Furthermore,in situ Raman spectroscopy monitor the dynamic process that OH∗adsorbed on oxygen vacancy and react with adjacent H∗adsorbed Ni,confirming the vital role of OH∗for alkaline HOR process.As a result,the optimal Ni/NbOx exhibits a remarkable intrinsic activity with a specific activity of 0.036mA/cm2,which is 4-fold than that of pristine Ni counterpart and surpasses most non-precious electrocatalysts ever reported.
基金supported financially by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,China(Grant No.51702180,51572136,91963113,21703116,51372127,51873096)The Scientific and Technical Development Project of Qingdao,China(Grant No.18-2-2-52-jch)+1 种基金The Taishan Scholar Advantage and Characteristic Discipline Team of Eco Chemical Process and TechnologyThe Natural Science Foundation of Hebei Province(B2019204009)。
摘要Efficient bifunctional oxygen electrocatalysts for ORR and OER are fundamental to the development of high performance metal-air batteries.Herein,a facile cost-efficient two-step pyrolysis strategy for the fabrication of a bifunctional oxygen electrocatalyst has been proposed.The efficient non-preciousmetal-based electrocatalyst,Fe/Fe3C@Fe-Nx-C consists of highly curved onion-like carbon shells that encapsulate Fe/Fe3C nanoparticles,distributed on an extensively porous graphitic carbon aerogel.The obtained Fe/Fe3C@Fe-Nx-C aerogel exhibited superb electrochemical activity,excellent durability,and high methanol tolerance.The experimental results indicated that the assembly of onion-like carbon shells with encapsulated Fe/Fe3C yielded highly curved carbon surfaces with abundant Fe-Nxactive sites,a porous structure,and enhanced electrocatalytic activity towards ORR and OER,hence displaying promising potential for application as an air cathode in rechargeable Zn-air batteries.The constructed Zn-air battery possessed an exceptional peak power density of~147 mW cm-2,outstanding cycling stability(200 cycles,1 h per cycle),and a small voltage gap of 0.87 V.This study offers valuable insights regarding the construction of low-cost and highly active bifunctional oxygen electrocatalysts for efficient air batteries.
基金the Joint Fund of the National Natural Science Foundation of China(U1732267).
摘要Understanding of the oxygen reduction reaction(ORR)mechanism for single atom catalysts is pivotal for the rational design of non-precious metal cathode materials and the commercialization of fuel cells.Herein,a series of non-precious metal electrocatalysts based on nitrogen-doped bimetallic(Fe and Co)carbide were modeled by density functional theory calculations to predict the corresponding reaction pathways.The study elucidated prior oxygen adsorption on the Fe atom in the dual site and the modifier role of Co atoms to tune the electronic structures of Fe.The reaction activity was highly correlated with the bimetallic center and the coordination environment of the adjacent nitrogen.Interestingly,the preadsorption of*OH resulted in the apparent change of metal atoms'electronic states with the d-band center shifting toward the Fermi level,thereby boosting reaction activity.The result should help promote the fundamental understanding of active sites in ORR catalysts and provide an effective approach to the design of highly efficient ORR catalysts on an atomic scale.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(21373042)~~
摘要The development of highly efficient catalysts for cathodes remains an important objective of fuel cell research. Here, we report Co3O4 nanoparticles assembled on a polypyrrole/graphene oxide electrocatalyst (Co3O4/Ppy/GO) as an efficient catalyst for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in alkaline media. The catalyst was prepared via the hydrothermal reaction of Co2+ ions with Ppy-modified GO. The GO, Ppy/GO, and Co3O4/Ppy/GO were characterized using scanning electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The incorporation of Ppy into GO nanosheets resulted in the formation of a nitrogen-modified GO po-rous structure, which acted as an efficient electron-transport network for the ORR. With further anchoring of Co3O4 on Ppy/GO, the as-prepared Co3O4/Ppy/GO exhibited excellent ORR activity and followed a four-electron route mechanism for the ORR in alkaline solution. An onset potential of -0.10 V vs. a saturated calomel electrode and a diffusion limiting current density of 2.30 mA/cm^2 were achieved for the Co3O4/Ppy/GO catalyst heated at 800 ℃; these values are comparable to those for noble-metal-based Pt/C catalysts. Our work demonstrates that Co3O4/Ppy/GO is highly active for the ORR. Notably, the Ppy coupling effects between Co3O4 and GO provide a new route for the preparation of efficient non-precious electrocatalysts with hierarchical porous structures for fuel cell applications.