Synthesis of a graphitized hierarchical porous carbon material supported with a transition metal for electrochemical conversion

Abstract

Carbon materials supported with metals with high graphitization and a hierarchical pore structure are emerging as promising catalysts in the electrochemical conversion area. However, the development of a facile method to prepare this class of catalysts remains challenge. In the present work, Ni species decorated carbon materials with high graphitization and a hierarchical pore structure have been prepared by a simple one-pot synthesis strategy. During the carbonization process, Ni atoms can catalyze the activation reaction between CO₂ and the carbon skeleton and further facilitate the formation of mesopores without affecting graphitization, which give rise to carbon materials with a foam-like nanostructure. A direct positive correlation is observed between the amount of Ni atoms and the mesopore size. The as-synthesized carbon material decorated with metal species with high graphitization and a hierarchical porous structure can serve as a promising electrocatalyst. This work might provide a path for the design and construction of metal decorated graphitized hierarchical porous carbon materials, which may show potential application in the electrochemical conversion field.