High-performance pyrolyzed iron corrole as a potential non-precious metal catalyst for PEMFCs
Journal
Journal of Materials Chemistry A
Journal Volume
1
Journal Issue
46
Pages
14692-14699
Date Issued
2013
Author(s)
Abstract
This work demonstrates the performance of carbon black-supported pyrolyzed Fe–corrole (py-Fe–corrole/C) as a cathode catalyst for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in PEMFCs. The ORR measurements reveal that the py-Fe–corrole/C exhibits good ORR activity, via the direct four-electron reduction pathway, in the reduction of O2 to H2O. The H2–O2 PEMFC produces high activity and good stability. The enhanced ORR activity is attributable to the network structure of poly-aromatic hydrocarbons, the quaternary (graphitic)-type nitrogen and the coordination structure of the py-Fe–corrole/C. Square wave voltammetry has been applied to the py-Fe–corrole/C to perform a redox reaction of Fe(II)/Fe(III) at 0.6 V. Finally, detailed in situ X-ray adsorption spectroscopy has been applied to determine the ORR mechanism of py-Fe–corrole/C.
Publisher
Royal Society of Chemistry
Type
journal article