Metallogel-derived 3D porous carbon nanosheet composites as an electrocatalyst for oxygen reduction reaction

The development of low-cost and high-performance non-precious metal electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is of great significance for fuel cell and zinc-air battery applications. Herein, a zinc/cobalt bimetallic organic gel (Zn/Co-MOG) with folate dipotassium salt (FDS) ligands was used as a precursor for pyrolysis synthesis of cobalt/nitrogen dual-doped porous carbon nanosheet composites (Co/N@PCS). The Co/N@PCS exhibits a 3D carbon framework composed of porous carbon nanosheets. Due to hierarchical porous structure and fast ion/electron transport, the Co/N@PCS exhibits an excellent ORR electrocatalytic activity. The half-wave potential of the Co/N@PCS is 0.87 V vs. RHE, and its limiting current density is up to 5.22 mA cm(-2). In addition, the Co/N@PCS shows a long-term cycling stability and excellent methanol-tolerant performance.