Bio‐Sourced Zeolite‐Templated Carbons for the Development of Efficient ORR Catalysts

Abstract

AbstractBio‐sourced Zeolite‐Templated Carbons (ZTCs) were achieved through the use of glycerol as carbon source. A systematic study of the textural and chemical properties is presented on ZTCs achieved at synthesis temperatures between 300 °C and 800 °C. Textural properties are importantly impacted through increasing synthesis temperature. ZTCs featuring high textural quality were synthesized at temperatures as low as 400 °C. Oxygen content was further found to be importantly impacted by the synthesis temperature. This latter plays a crucial role when materials are functionalized with thiourea, as high oxygen content allows for maximizing the incorporation of N and S in the ZTC. Functionalized bio‐sourced ZTCs allowed for achieving unparalleled ORR activities and hydroxyl selectivities when compared to other functionalized carbon materials such as graphene‐based catalysts.