Eu2O3-Cu/NC nanocomposite catalyst with improved oxygen reduction reaction activity for Zn-air batteries

Rare earth oxide promoted transition metal composite catalyst Eu2O3-Cu/NC with outstanding oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) performance, is constructed by hydrothermal and subsequent high-temperature calcination, considering replacing Pt/C. This synthesis method yields Eu2O3-Cu nanoparticles with uniform distribution, improved oxygen vacancies and increased content of N-doping. And the strong synergistic effect was created between promoter Eu2O3 and chief Cu. In addition, the accommodate adsorption and transfer of O species endow Eu2O3-Cu/NC the improved ORR activity than Eu2O3/NC and Cu/NC. Meanwhile, the stability of Eu2O3-Cu/NC is also strengthened compared to Cu/NC on account of the interaction of active sites, and the H2O2 yield of Eu2O3-Cu/NC is very low. For practical application, a rechargeable Zn-air battery with an air cathode of Eu2O3-Cu/NC displays a larger power density, excellent charge-discharge cycle stability and good rate capability. The designed composite shows potential application prospects in the fields of energy conversion. (C) 2020 Hydrogen Energy Publications LLC. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

The rare earth oxide promoted transition metal composite catalyst displays outstanding ORR performance and stability, suitable for rechargeable Zn-air batteries, with potential application prospects in the field of energy conversion.