Precisely controlled synthesis of Co/N species containing porous carbon for oxygen reduction reaction via anion exchange and CO2 activation

Abstract

For wide use and cost reduction of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), the development of transition-metal-doped porous carbon (TMPC) electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is urgently needed. Herein, we report a new strategy for designing CoN_x-doped carbon materials with fine-tuned porosity via anion exchange and CO₂ activation processes. Highly dispersed CoN_x species are introduced into carbon materials by the anion exchange process. After that, the porosity of the CoN_x-doped carbon is controlled by an optimized CO₂ activation. The precisely controlled active sites and porosity of the obtained catalyst (Co/N/C-act) lead to an extraordinary ORR performance in an alkaline medium. This work paves a new direction in development strategy not only for electrocatalysts but also for other potential applications, such as water splitting and supercapacitors.