One-step fabrication of Cu-based metal organic framework multilayer core–shell microspheres for efficiently catalyzing the oxygen reduction reaction†
Abstract
Micro/nanomaterials with multilayer core–shell structures are receiving widespread attention due to their potential in energy storage and conversion systems. However, simple fabrication of multilayered core–shell structured micro/nanomaterials with a consistent composition still faces a great challenge. Herein, a simple one-step solvothermal method is used to fabricate Cu-based metal organic framework multilayer core–shell microspheres (Cu-MOF-MCSMSs) as efficient oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalysts. The systematic structural evolution of Cu-MOF-MCSMSs is from microspheres to core–shell microspheres and then to multilayer core–shell microspheres. Additionally, different transition metal cations and anions can also influence the structures, compositions and thus ORR activities of the synthesized MOFs. The representative Cu-MOF-MCSMSs exhibit high ORR activity and cycling stability. The simple method can provide a good guide to fabricate other micro/nanomaterials with multilayer core–shell structures and desirable properties.