Multilayer Porous Fe/Co-N-MWCNT Electrocatalyst For Rechargeable Zinc-Air Batteries

The design of efficient, stable, low-cost non-precious metal-based electrocatalysts with enhanced oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity has garnered significant attention in the scientific community. This study introduces a novel electrocatalyst, Fe/Co-N-MWCNT, synthesized through the in-situ growth of ZIF-8 and Fe/Co-Phen on multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), followed by pyrolysis at varying temperatures to optimize its properties. The inclusion of Fe and Co during the pyrolysis process facilitated the creation of metal active sites and Fe−Co, enhancing electron transfer and ORR activity. Compared to Pt/C (E_1/2=0.854 V, J_L=4.90 mA cm⁻²), Fe/Co-N-MWCNT exhibited a similar half-wave potential (E_1/2=0.812 V) and an improved limiting current density (J_L=5.37 mA cm⁻²). Moreover, Fe/Co-N-MWCNT displayed remarkable stability, showing only a 7 mV negative shift in E_1/2 after 2000 cycles. Ampere response testing indicated a current decay of only 7.8 % for Fe/Co-N-MWCNT after 10000 s, while Pt/C experienced a decay of about 18.4 %. The exceptional catalytic stability of Fe/Co-N-MWCNT positions it as a promising candidate for rechargeable zinc-air batteries, attributed to its high pyridinic nitrogen content, unique structure, and abundant metal active sites.