Integrating PtCo nanoparticles into graphitic carbon for rechargeable zinc–air batteries

Abstract

The development of efficient and durable electrocatalysts is crucial for large-scale application of rechargeable zinc air batteries (ZABs). In this work, PtCo nanoparticles with a molar ratio of 1 : 1 and 0.5 : 1 were rationally integrated into graphitic Ketjenblack (Kb) carbon using the polyol method. The prepared catalysts were denoted as PtCo/Kb and Pt_0.5Co/Kb based on their ratios, respectively. The catalytic activities of the synthesized catalysts were investigated toward the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), oxygen evolution reaction (OER), and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in alkaline media. In particular, the Pt_0.5Co/Kb catalyst demonstrated excellent ZAB performance with a specific capacity of 804 mAh g⁻¹ at 20 mA cm⁻² and a stable cycling performance of up to 50 hours at a current density of 10 mA cm⁻², surpassing its PtCo/Kb and cobalt-free Pt/Kb catalyst counterparts, likely due to the elemental composition effect.