Metal-free honeycomb-like electrocatalyst with high specific mass activity for accelerated oxygen reduction reaction in both alkaline and acidic media

Abstract

The fabrication of superior oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) electrocatalysts, a challenging process, is currently focuses on expensive and rare platinum (Pt) group based metals. However, these noble metals-based electrocatalysts often suffer from disadvantages, including poor stability, exorbitant price, and low selectivity. Here, we report a simple strategy to synthesize a porous honeycomb-like carbon-based electrocatalyst codoped with nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) without any template. Benefiting from the synergistic impact of N, P co-doping, the as-developed honeycomb-like carbon (N,P-HLC) displays splendid ORR electrochemical activity with a large onset potential of 1.0 V (vs. RHE), and half-wave potential (E1/2) of 0.85 V (vs. RHE). What's more, N,P-HLC displays remarkable ORR performance under the super low electrocatalyst loading capacity of 0.15 mg cm−2, which is highly comparable to benchmark Pt/C (E1/2 = 0.83 V, loading capacity 0.38 mg cm−2). Meanwhile, N,P-HLC also exhibits exceptional ORR activity in the harsh acid conditions. This work introduces a robust, low-cost and superb electrocatalytic materials to replace the noble metal-based ORR electrocatalysts.