Fe/N-Doped Carbon Framework Derived from ZIF-8 on Graphene Oxide for Efficient Oxygen Reduction Reaction

Exploration of highly efficient non-noble metal oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalysts is essential for the widespread industrial utilization of fuel cells. Herein, we demonstrated a hierarchical porous catalyst (denoted as Fe-NC-Gs) using a simple stirring and one-step pyrolysis method. ZIF-8-derived N-doped carbon framework loaded on graphene oxide, on which Fe₃O₄ and FeS nanoparticles are uniformly dispersed. In the composite nanostructure, a high surface area (470.58 m² g⁻¹) and hierarchical porous structure were observed. The obtained Fe-NC-G-2 exhibits superior ORR properties. The half-wave potential (E_1/2) and the limiting current density in alkaline media were up to 0.85 V and − 5.39 mA cm⁻², respectively, comparable to the commercially available Pt/C. The four-electron-dominated process was exhibited in the ORR catalysis. It also manifests a better methanol tolerance and electrochemical stability during the chronoamperometry measurement in 0.1 M KOH. These results suggest that the proposed strategy provides a new pathway to construct efficient electrocatalysts for ORR.

Graphical Abstract