A high-performance nitrogen-rich ZIF-8-derived Fe-Co-NC electrocatalyst for the oxygen reduction reaction

Abstract: Exploring and developing low-cost, high-performance, and stable catalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is of great importance, though progress is ongoing. In this work, a simple evaporation-pyrolysis method is employed to synthesize 3D porous electrocatalysts, referred to as Fe-Co-NC, which are carbonization products at 900{\deg}C. These catalysts are composed of carbon nanoparticles and metallic FeCo doped nitrogen-enriched carbon nanotubes, produced through the carbonization of pristine ZIF-8, resulting in highly efficient and durable ORR electrocatalysts. The Fe-Co-NC structure exhibits a 3D open porous texture, abundant active sites, favorable nitrogen bonding, and a high specific surface area, all of which contribute to excellent ORR activity. The optimal Fe-Co-NC catalyst demonstrates exceptional ORR performance, with a high onset potential of 0.96 V and a half-wave potential of 0.86 V versus RHE, rivaling the performance of commercially available Pt/C in an alkaline electrolyte. Additionally, the Fe-Co-NC catalyst shows superior stability compared to Pt/C, which is crucial for the development of novel electrocatalysts based on non-precious metals.