Pt Nanoparticles Supported on Iron and Nitrogen-Doped Holey Graphene for Boosting ORR Performance

Abstract

Developing low-platinum catalysts is considered a promising strategy to facilitate the commercialization of fuel cells. However, the electrochemical performance of such materials is often hindered by mass-transfer issues. In this study, platinum nanoparticles supported on iron and nitrogen-doped holey graphene (Pt/Fe, N-HG) were synthesized by a simple method and used as an oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalyst. The unique holey structure and the co-doping of Fe and N atoms are proved beneficial for not only the formation of Pt nanoparticles but also enhancing the electrochemical performance of the catalyst. Density functional theory calculations indicate that the co-doping of Fe and N atoms increases the ability to adsorb Pt, as well as enhances the Pt adsorption of O2 and oxygen-containing intermediates in the ORR. This study presents a novel approach for the controllable synthesis of multidoped holey graphene-based electrocatalysts, with optimized surface holey structures and electrochemical performances. These findings offer significant insights into the development of efficient catalysts for fuel cell applications.