Carbon Quantum Dots Derived N-Doped Porous Carbon Frameworks with High Electrocatalytic for Oxygen Reduction Reaction

Abstract

Developing low-cost, high-performance metal-free oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalysts for fuel cells is highly desirable but still full of challenges. In this study, nitrogen-doped three-dimensional (3D) porous carbon frameworks (NCFs) derived from zero-dimensional carbon quantum dots have been prepared by a simple one-step self-assembly technique. The resultant NCF-800 (carbonized at 800[Formula: see text]C) possesses unique 3D porous framework architecture, large specific surface area (171[Formula: see text]cm2 g[Formula: see text] and abundant defect sites. As a catalyst for ORR, the optimized NCF-800 displays a positive onset potential at 0.87[Formula: see text]V (versus reversible hydrogen electrode), which is roughly 60[Formula: see text]mV more negative than that of Pt/C (0.93[Formula: see text]V). Additionally, the NCF-800 exhibits long-term stability and strong endurance to methanol in alkaline electrolyte, which is much superior to those of Pt/C. Considering the outstanding activity of NCF-800, it can be worked as a prospective metal-free ORR catalyst for fuel cells in the future.