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Shen M, Liu Q, Sun J, Liang C, Xiong C, Hou C, Huang J, Cao L, Feng Y, Shang Z. Vapor deposition strategy for implanting isolated Fe sites into papermaking nanofibers-derived N-doped carbon aerogels for liquid Electrolyte-/All-Solid-State Zn-Air batteries. J Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 673:453-462. [PMID: 38878379 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2024.06.100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/26/2024]
Abstract
Single-atom catalysts (SACs), with precisely controlled metal atom distribution and adjustable coordination architecture, have gained intensive concerns as efficient oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) electrocatalysts in Zn-air batteries (ZAB). The attainment of a monodispersed state for metallic atoms anchored on the carbonaceous substrate remains the foremost research priority; however, the persistent challenges lie in the relatively weak metal-support interactions and the instability of captured single atom active sites. Furthermore, in order to achieve rapid transport of O2 and other reactive substances within the carbon matrix, manufacturing SACs based on multi-stage porous carbon substrates is highly anticipated. Here, we propose a methodology for the fabrication of carbon aerogels (CA)-supported SACs utilizing papermaking nanofibers, which incorporates advanced strategies for N-atom self-doping, defect/vacancy introduction, and single-atom interface engineering. Specifically, taking advantages of using green and energy-efficient feedstocks, combining with a direct pore-forming template volatilization and chemical vapor deposition approach, we successfully developed N-doped carbon aerogels immobilized with separated iron sites (Fe-SAC@N/CA-Cd). The obtained Fe-SAC@N/CA-Cd exhibited substantially large specific surface area (SBET = 1173 m2/g) and a multi-level pore structure, which can effectively mitigate the random aggregation of Fe atoms during pyrolysis. As a result, it demonstrated appreciable activity and stability in catalyzing the ORR progress (E1/2 = 0.88 V, Eonset = 0.96 V). Furthermore, the assembled liquid electrolyte-state Zn-air batteries (LES-ZAB) and all-solid-state Zn-air battery (ASS-ZAB) also provides encouraging performance, with a peak power density of 169 mW cm-2 for LES-ZAB and a maximum power density of 124 mW cm-2 for ASS-ZAB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengxia Shen
- College of Bioresources Chemical and Materials Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an 710021, China; School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Green Preparation and Functionalization for Inorganic Materials, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an 710021, China.
| | - Qingqing Liu
- College of Bioresources Chemical and Materials Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an 710021, China; School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Green Preparation and Functionalization for Inorganic Materials, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an 710021, China
| | - Jiaojiao Sun
- College of Bioresources Chemical and Materials Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an 710021, China
| | - Chanjuan Liang
- College of Bioresources Chemical and Materials Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an 710021, China
| | - Chuanyin Xiong
- College of Bioresources Chemical and Materials Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an 710021, China.
| | - Chen Hou
- College of Bioresources Chemical and Materials Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an 710021, China
| | - Jianfeng Huang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Green Preparation and Functionalization for Inorganic Materials, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an 710021, China
| | - Liyun Cao
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Green Preparation and Functionalization for Inorganic Materials, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an 710021, China
| | - Yongqiang Feng
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Green Preparation and Functionalization for Inorganic Materials, Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xi'an 710021, China
| | - Zhen Shang
- Institute of Nuclear and New Energy Technology, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China.
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He S, Wang J, Sun C. Boosted electrocatalytic activity and durability of CuFe/NC by modulating the interfacial composition and electronic structure for efficient oxygen reduction reaction. J Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 677:771-780. [PMID: 39121661 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2024.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2024] [Revised: 07/30/2024] [Accepted: 08/04/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
Oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) serves as the foundation for various electrochemical energy storage devices. Fe/NC catalysts are expected to replace commercial Pt/C as oxygen electrode catalysts based on the structural tunability at the atomic level, abundant iron ore reserves and excellent activity. Nevertheless, the lack of durability and low active site density impede its advancement. In this work, a durable catalyst, CuFe/NC, for ORR was prepared by modulating the interfacial composition and electronic structure. The introduction of Cu nanoclusters partially eliminates the Fenton effect from Fe and optimizes the electron structure of FeNx, thereby effectively enhancing the long-term durability and activity. The prepared CuFe/NC exhibits a half-wave potential (E1/2) of 0.90 V and superior stability with a decrease in E1/2 of only 20 mV after 10,000 cycles. The assembled alkaline Zinc-Air batteries (ZABs) with CuFe/NC exhibit an open-circuit potential of 1.458 V. At a current density of 5 mA cm-2, the batteries are capable of operation for 600 h with a stable polarization. This CuFe/NC may promote the practical application of novel and renewable electrochemical energy storage devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengzhi He
- School of Chemical & Environmental Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology-Beijing, Beijing 100083, PR China
| | - Jingyu Wang
- School of Chemical & Environmental Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology-Beijing, Beijing 100083, PR China
| | - Chunwen Sun
- School of Chemical & Environmental Engineering, China University of Mining and Technology-Beijing, Beijing 100083, PR China.
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3
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Duan Y, Xia Y, Ling Y, Zhou S, Liu X, Lan Y, Yin X, Yang Y, Yan X, Liang M, Hong S, Zhang L, Wang L. Regulating Second-Shell Coordination in Cobalt Single-Atom Catalysts toward Highly Selective Hydrogenation. ACS NANO 2024. [PMID: 39083439 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.4c05637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
Manipulating the local coordination environment of central metal atoms in single-atom catalysts (SACs) is a powerful strategy to exploit efficient SACs with optimal electronic structures for various applications. Herein, Co-SACs featured by Co single atoms with coordinating S atoms in the second shell dispersed in a nitrogen-doped carbon matrix have been developed toward the selective hydrogenation of halo-nitrobenzene. The location of the S atom in the model Co-SAC is verified through synchrotron-based X-ray absorption spectroscopy and theoretical calculations. The resultant Co-SACs containing second-coordination shell S atoms demonstrate excellent activity and outstanding durability for selective hydrogenation, superior to most precious metal-based catalysts. In situ characterizations and theoretical results verify that high activity and selectivity are attributed to the advantageous formation of the Co-O bond between p-chloronitrobenzene and Co atom at Co1N4-S moieties and the lower free energy and energy barriers of the reaction. Our findings unveil the correlation between the performance and second-shell coordination atom of SACs.
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Wang D, Zha S, Li Y, Li X, Wang J, Chu Y, Mitsuzaki N, Chen Z. A carboxylate linker strategy mediated densely accessible Fe-N 4 sites for enhancing oxygen electroreduction in Zn-air batteries. J Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 665:879-887. [PMID: 38564952 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2024.03.188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Iron-nitrogen-carbon single-atom catalysts derived from zeolitic-imidazolate-framework-8 (ZIF-8) have presented its great potential for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in Zn-air batteries (ZABs). However, due to insufficient active Fe-N sites, its ORR activity is inferior to Pt-based catalysts. Herein, a carboxylate (OAc) linker strategy is proposed to design a ZIF-8-derived FeNCOAc catalyst with abundant accessible Fe-N4 single-atom sites. Except that imidazole groups can coordinate with Fe ions, the OAc linker on the unsaturated coordination Zn nodes can anchor and coordinate with more Fe ions, resulting in a significant increase in Fe-N4 site density. Meanwhile, the corrosion of carbon skeleton by OAc oxidation during heat-treatment leads to improved porosity of catalyst. Benefitting from the highly dense Fe-N4 sites and hierarchical pores, the FeNCOAc endows superior performance in alkaline medium (E1/2 = 0.906 V), which is confirmed by density functional theory calculation results. Meanwhile, the assembled liquid ZAB delivers a favorable peak power density of 173.9 mW cm-2, and a high specific capacity of 770.9 mAh g-1 as well as outstanding durability. Besides, the solid-state ZAB also shows outstanding discharge performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Advanced Catalytic Materials and Technology, Advanced Catalysis and Green Manufacturing Collaborative Innovation Center, School of Petrochemical Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213164, China
| | - Sujuan Zha
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Advanced Catalytic Materials and Technology, Advanced Catalysis and Green Manufacturing Collaborative Innovation Center, School of Petrochemical Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213164, China
| | - Yaqiang Li
- MIIT Key Laboratory of Critical Materials Technology for New Energy Conversion and Storage, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150001, China
| | - Xiaosong Li
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Materials Surface Science and Technology, Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Photovoltaic Science and Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213164, China
| | - Jibiao Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Advanced Catalytic Materials and Technology, Advanced Catalysis and Green Manufacturing Collaborative Innovation Center, School of Petrochemical Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213164, China
| | - Yuan Chu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Advanced Catalytic Materials and Technology, Advanced Catalysis and Green Manufacturing Collaborative Innovation Center, School of Petrochemical Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213164, China
| | | | - Zhidong Chen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Advanced Catalytic Materials and Technology, Advanced Catalysis and Green Manufacturing Collaborative Innovation Center, School of Petrochemical Engineering, Changzhou University, Changzhou, Jiangsu 213164, China.
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Shao X, Gan R, Rao Y, Nga TTT, Liang M, Dong CL, Ma C, Lee JY, Li H, Lee H. Main Group SnN 4O Single Sites with Optimized Charge Distribution for Boosting the Oxygen Reduction Reaction. ACS NANO 2024; 18:14742-14753. [PMID: 38770934 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.4c04112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Transition metal single-atom catalysts (SACs) have been regarded as possible alternatives to platinum-based materials due to their satisfactory performance of the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). By contrast, main-group metal elements are rarely studied due to their unfavorable surface and electronic states. Herein, a main-group Sn-based SAC with penta-coordinated and asymmetric first-shell ligands is reported as an efficient and robust ORR catalyst. The introduction of the vertical oxygen atom breaks the symmetric charge balance, modulating the binding strength to oxygen intermediates and decreasing the energy barrier for the ORR process. As expected, the prepared Sn SAC exhibits outstanding ORR activity with a high half-wave potential of 0.912 V (vs RHE) and an excellent mass activity of 13.1 A mgSn-1 at 0.850 V (vs RHE), which surpasses that of commercial Pt/C and most reported transition-metal-based SACs. Additionally, the reported Sn SAC shows excellent ORR stability due to the strong interaction between Sn sites and the carbon support with oxygen atom as the bridge. The excellent ORR performance of Sn SAC was also proven by both liquid- and solid-state zinc-air battery (ZAB) measurements, indicating its great potential in practical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodong Shao
- Department of Chemistry, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Ruihui Gan
- Tianjin Municipal Key Lab of Advanced Fiber and Energy Storage Technology, Tiangong University, Tianjin 300387, China
| | - Yuan Rao
- College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Ta Thi Thuy Nga
- Department of Physics, Tamkang University, Taipei, New Taipei City 25137, Taiwan
| | - Mengfang Liang
- Department of Chemistry, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Chung-Li Dong
- Department of Physics, Tamkang University, Taipei, New Taipei City 25137, Taiwan
| | - Chang Ma
- Tianjin Municipal Key Lab of Advanced Fiber and Energy Storage Technology, Tiangong University, Tianjin 300387, China
| | - Jin Yong Lee
- Department of Chemistry, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Hao Li
- Department of Chemistry, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyoyoung Lee
- Department of Chemistry, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea
- Creative Research Institute, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Quantum Biophysics, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea
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6
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Li Z, Zhong X, Gao L, Hu J, Peng W, Wang X, Zhou G, Xu B. Asymmetric Coordination of Bimetallic Fe-Co Single-Atom Pairs toward Enhanced Bifunctional Activity for Rechargeable Zinc-Air Batteries. ACS NANO 2024; 18:13006-13018. [PMID: 38736197 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.4c01342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
The advancement of rechargeable zinc-air batteries (RZABs) faces challenges from the pronounced polarization and sluggish kinetics of oxygen reduction and evolution reactions (ORR and OER). Single-atom catalysts offer an effective solution, yet their insufficient or singular catalytic activity hinders their development. In this work, a dual single-atom catalyst, FeCo-SAs, was fabricated, featuring atomically dispersed N3-Fe-Co-N4 sites on N-doped graphene nanosheets for bifunctional activity. Introducing Co into Fe single-atoms and secondary pyrolysis altered Fe coordination with N, creating an asymmetric environment that promoted charge transfer and increased the density of states near the Fermi level. This catalyst achieved a narrow potential gap of 0.616 V, with a half-wave potential of 0.884 V for ORR (vs the reversible hydrogen electrode) and a low OER overpotential of 270 mV at 10 mA cm-2. Owing to the superior activity of FeCo-SAs, RZABs exhibited a peak power density of 203.36 mW cm-2 and an extended cycle life of over 550 h, exceeding the commercial Pt/C + IrO2 catalyst. Furthermore, flexible RZABs with FeCo-SAs demonstrated the promising future of bimetallic pairs in wearable energy storage devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhitong Li
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Xiongwei Zhong
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Leyi Gao
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Junjie Hu
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Wenbo Peng
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Xingzhu Wang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Guangmin Zhou
- Shenzhen Geim Graphene Center, Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute & Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Baomin Xu
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
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7
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Ding C, Zhao Y, Qiao Z. Modification of carbon nanofibers for boosting oxygen electrocatalysis. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2024; 26:13606-13621. [PMID: 38682278 DOI: 10.1039/d3cp05904a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Oxygen electrocatalysis is a key process for many effective energy conversion techniques, which requires the development of high-performance electrocatalysts. Carbon nanofibers featuring good electronic conductivity, large specific surface area, high axial strength and modulus, and good resistance toward harsh environments have thus been recognized as reinforcements in oxygen electrocatalysis. This review summarizes the recent progress on carbon nanofibers as electrocatalysts for oxygen electrocatalysis, with special focus on the modulation of carbon nanofibers for further elevating their electrocatalytic performance, which includes morphological and structural engineering, surface and pore size distribution, defect engineering, and coupling with other electroactive materials. Additionally, the correlation between the geometrical/electronic structure of their active centers and electrocatalytic activity is systematically discussed. Finally, conclusions and perspectives of this interesting research field are presented, which we hope will provide guidance for the future fabrication of more advanced carbon-fiber-based electrocatalysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changming Ding
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Special Functional Textile Materials, Changzhou Vocational Institute of Textile and Garment, Changzhou, 213164, China.
- Jiangsu Ruilante New Materials Co., Ltd, Yangzhou, 211400, China
| | - Yitao Zhao
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Special Functional Textile Materials, Changzhou Vocational Institute of Textile and Garment, Changzhou, 213164, China.
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Catalytic Materials and Technology, Advanced Catalysis and Green Manufacturing Collaborative Innovation Center, Changzhou University, Changzhou, Jiangsu Province, 213164, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of High-Performance Fiber Composites, JITRI-PGTEX Joint Innovation Center, PGTEX CHINA Co., Ltd., Changzhou, Jiangsu Province, 213164, China
| | - Zhiyong Qiao
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Special Functional Textile Materials, Changzhou Vocational Institute of Textile and Garment, Changzhou, 213164, China.
- Jiangsu Ruilante New Materials Co., Ltd, Yangzhou, 211400, China
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8
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Zheng H, Deng D, Zheng X, Chen Y, Bai Y, Liu M, Jiang J, Zheng H, Wang Y, Wang J, Yang P, Xiong Y, Xiong X, Lei Y. Highly Reversible Zn-Air Batteries Enabled by Tuned Valence Electron and Steric Hindrance on Atomic Fe-N 4-C Sites. NANO LETTERS 2024; 24:4672-4681. [PMID: 38587873 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.4c01078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
The bifunctional oxygen electrocatalyst is the Achilles' heel of achieving robust reversible Zn-air batteries (ZABs). Herein, durable bifunctional oxygen electrocatalysis in alkaline media is realized on atomic Fe-N4-C sites reinforced by NixCo3-xO4 (NixCo3-xO4@Fe1/NC). Compared with that of pristine Fe1/NC, the stability of the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is increased 10 times and the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) performance is also improved. The steric hindrance alters the valence electron at the Fe-N4-C sites, resulting in a shorter Fe-N bond and enhanced stability of the Fe-N4-C sites. The corresponding solid-state ZABs exhibit an ultralong lifespan (>460 h at 5 mA cm-2) and high rate performance (from 2 to 50 mA cm-2). Furthermore, the structural evolution of NixCo3-xO4@Fe1/NC before and after the OER and ORR as well as charge-discharge cycling is explored. This work develops an efficient strategy for improving bifunctional oxygen electrocatalysis and possibly other processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huanran Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Powder Metallurgy, Central South University, Changsha 410083, P. R. China
| | - Danni Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Powder Metallurgy, Central South University, Changsha 410083, P. R. China
| | - Xinran Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Powder Metallurgy, Central South University, Changsha 410083, P. R. China
| | - Yingbi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Powder Metallurgy, Central South University, Changsha 410083, P. R. China
| | - Yu Bai
- State Key Laboratory of Powder Metallurgy, Central South University, Changsha 410083, P. R. China
| | - Mengjie Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Powder Metallurgy, Central South University, Changsha 410083, P. R. China
| | - Jiabi Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Powder Metallurgy, Central South University, Changsha 410083, P. R. China
| | - Haitao Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Powder Metallurgy, Central South University, Changsha 410083, P. R. China
| | - Yuchao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Powder Metallurgy, Central South University, Changsha 410083, P. R. China
| | - Jinxian Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Powder Metallurgy, Central South University, Changsha 410083, P. R. China
| | - Peiyao Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Powder Metallurgy, Central South University, Changsha 410083, P. R. China
| | - Yu Xiong
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha 410083, P. R. China
| | - Xiang Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Powder Metallurgy, Central South University, Changsha 410083, P. R. China
| | - Yongpeng Lei
- State Key Laboratory of Powder Metallurgy, Central South University, Changsha 410083, P. R. China
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9
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Yu Y, Zhu Z, Huang H. Surface Engineered Single-atom Systems for Energy Conversion. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2311148. [PMID: 38197471 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202311148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
Single-atom catalysts (SACs) are demonstrated to show exceptional reactivity and selectivity in catalytic reactions by effectively utilizing metal species, making them a favorable choice among the different active materials for energy conversion. However, SACs are still in the early stages of energy conversion, and problems like agglomeration and low energy conversion efficiency are hampering their practical applications. Substantial research focus on support modifications, which are vital for SAC reactivity and stability due to the intimate relationship between metal atoms and support. In this review, a category of supports and a variety of surface engineering strategies employed in SA systems are summarized, including surface site engineering (heteroatom doping, vacancy introducing, surface groups grafting, and coordination tunning) and surface structure engineering (size/morphology control, cocatalyst deposition, facet engineering, and crystallinity control). Also, the merits of support surface engineering in single-atom systems are systematically introduced. Highlights are the comprehensive summary and discussions on the utilization of surface-engineered SACs in diversified energy conversion applications including photocatalysis, electrocatalysis, thermocatalysis, and energy conversion devices. At the end of this review, the potential and obstacles of using surface-engineered SACs in the field of energy conversion are discussed. This review aims to guide the rational design and manipulation of SACs for target-specific applications by capitalizing on the characteristic benefits of support surface engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutang Yu
- Engineering Research Center of Ministry of Education for Geological Carbon Storage and Low Carbon Utilization of Resources, Beijing Key Laboratory of Materials Utilization of Nonmetallic Minerals and Solid Wastes, National Laboratory of Mineral Materials, School of Materials Science and Technology, China University of Geosciences (Beijing), Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Zijian Zhu
- Engineering Research Center of Ministry of Education for Geological Carbon Storage and Low Carbon Utilization of Resources, Beijing Key Laboratory of Materials Utilization of Nonmetallic Minerals and Solid Wastes, National Laboratory of Mineral Materials, School of Materials Science and Technology, China University of Geosciences (Beijing), Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Hongwei Huang
- Engineering Research Center of Ministry of Education for Geological Carbon Storage and Low Carbon Utilization of Resources, Beijing Key Laboratory of Materials Utilization of Nonmetallic Minerals and Solid Wastes, National Laboratory of Mineral Materials, School of Materials Science and Technology, China University of Geosciences (Beijing), Beijing, 100083, China
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10
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Pei Z, Zhang H, Guo Y, Luan D, Gu X, Lou XWD. Atomically Dispersed Fe Sites Regulated by Adjacent Single Co Atoms Anchored on N-P Co-Doped Carbon Structures for Highly Efficient Oxygen Reduction Reaction. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2306047. [PMID: 37496431 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202306047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Manipulating the coordination environment and electron distribution for heterogeneous catalysts at the atomic level is an effective strategy to improve electrocatalytic performance but remains challenging. Herein, atomically dispersed Fe and Co anchored on nitrogen, phosphorus co-doped carbon hollow nanorod structures (FeCo-NPC) are rationally designed and synthesized. The as-prepared FeCo-NPC catalyst exhibits significantly boosted electrocatalytic kinetics and greatly upshifts the half-wave potential for the oxygen reduction reaction. Furthermore, when utilized as the cathode, the FeCo-NPC catalyst also displays excellent zinc-air battery performance. Experimental and theoretical results demonstrate that the introduction of single Co atoms with Co-N/P coordination around isolated Fe atoms induces asymmetric electron distribution, resulting in the suitable adsorption/desorption ability for oxygen intermediates and the optimized reaction barrier, thereby improving the electrocatalytic activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihao Pei
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, 62 Nanyang Drive, Singapore, 637459
| | - Huabin Zhang
- KAUST Catalysis Center (KCC), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal, 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yan Guo
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, 010021, China
| | - Deyan Luan
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Xiaojun Gu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, 010021, China
| | - Xiong Wen David Lou
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 999077, China
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11
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Li L, Xu J, Zhu Q, Meng X, Xu H, Han M. Non-noble metal single-atoms for oxygen electrocatalysis in rechargeable zinc-air batteries: recent developments and future perspectives. Dalton Trans 2024; 53:1915-1934. [PMID: 38192245 DOI: 10.1039/d3dt03249c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
Ever-growing demands for zinc-air batteries (ZABs) call for the development of advanced electrocatalysts. Single-atom catalysts (SACs), particularly those for isolating non-noble metals (NBMs), are attracting great interest due to their merits of low cost, high atom utilization efficiency, structural tunability, and extraordinary activity. Rational design of advanced NBM SACs relies heavily on an in-depth understanding of reaction mechanisms. To gain a better understanding of the reaction mechanisms of oxygen electrocatalysis in ZABs and guide the design and optimization of more efficient NBM SACs, we herein organize a comprehensive review by summarizing the fundamental concepts in the field of ZABs and the recent advances in the reported NBM SACs. Moreover, the selection of NBM elements and supports of SACs and some effective strategies for enhancing the electrochemical performance of ZABs are illustrated in detail. Finally, the challenges and future direction in this field of ZABs are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le Li
- Jiangsu Urban and Rural Construction Vocational College, Changzhou 213147, China.
| | - Jixing Xu
- Jiangsu Urban and Rural Construction Vocational College, Changzhou 213147, China.
| | - Qianyi Zhu
- Jiangsu Urban and Rural Construction Vocational College, Changzhou 213147, China.
| | - Xiangjun Meng
- Jiangsu Urban and Rural Construction Vocational College, Changzhou 213147, China.
| | - Hongliang Xu
- Jiangsu Urban and Rural Construction Vocational College, Changzhou 213147, China.
| | - Meijun Han
- Jiangsu Urban and Rural Construction Vocational College, Changzhou 213147, China.
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12
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Wang Z, Deng D, Wang H, Wu S, Zhu L, Xu L, Li H. Engineering Mn-N x sites on porous carbon via molecular assembly strategy for long-life zinc-air batteries. J Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 653:1348-1357. [PMID: 37801845 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2023.09.174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023]
Abstract
Nitrogen-coordinated manganese atoms on carbon materials denoted as MnNC, serve as the highly active non-precious metal electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in zinc-air batteries (ZABs). Nonetheless, a significant challenge arises from the tendency of Mn atoms to aggregate during heat treatment, thereby compromising ORR performance in ZABs. In this work, the molecular assembly strategy based on the hydrogen bond interaction was employed to fabricate the MnNC electrocatalyst. This approach promotes the dispersion of Mn atoms, creating abundant Mn-Nx active sites. Furthermore, the resulting three-dimensional porous nanostructure, formed by molecular assembly, significantly enhances accessibility to the Mn-Nx active sites. The porous nanostructure not only shortens the diffusion path of reactants and charges but also improves mass transfer. The MnNC exhibits impressive ORR catalytic performance with a half-wave potential of 0.90 V (vs. RHE). The liquid-type ZAB based on MnNC displays a high specific capacity of 816.6 mAh/g and an extended charge-discharge cycle life of 1000 h. Quasi-solid-state ZAB based on MnNC can operate stably for 24 h. This work presents an effective strategy to synthesize transition metal-nitrogen-carbon (MNC) electrocatalysts tailored for long-life zinc-air battery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zehui Wang
- Institute for Energy Research, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu Province and Education Ministry Co-Sponsored Synergistic Innovation Center of Modern Agricultural Equipment, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Daijie Deng
- Institute for Energy Research, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu Province and Education Ministry Co-Sponsored Synergistic Innovation Center of Modern Agricultural Equipment, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Huan Wang
- Institute for Energy Research, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu Province and Education Ministry Co-Sponsored Synergistic Innovation Center of Modern Agricultural Equipment, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Suqin Wu
- Institute for Energy Research, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu Province and Education Ministry Co-Sponsored Synergistic Innovation Center of Modern Agricultural Equipment, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Linhua Zhu
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Key Laboratory of Water Pollution Treatment and Resource Reuse of Hainan Province, Hainan Normal University, Haikou 571158, China
| | - Li Xu
- Institute for Energy Research, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu Province and Education Ministry Co-Sponsored Synergistic Innovation Center of Modern Agricultural Equipment, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China.
| | - Henan Li
- Institute for Energy Research, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu Province and Education Ministry Co-Sponsored Synergistic Innovation Center of Modern Agricultural Equipment, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China.
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13
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Chen C, Zhou S, Xia J, Li L, Qian X, Yin F, He G, Chen H. g-C 3N 4 promoted MOF-derived Fe single atoms anchored on N-doped hierarchically porous carbon for high-performance Zn-air batteries. J Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 653:551-560. [PMID: 37729762 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2023.09.094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
Exploring efficient, easy-to-manufacture, and inexpensive bifunctional electrocatalysts with abundant accessible active sites is crucial for rechargeable zinc-air batteries (ZABs). Herein, we report the strategy consisting of the space confinement and pore-making engineering to fabricate single-atom catalyst enriched with Fe-N4 sites anchored on N-doped hierarchically porous carbon (Fe-NC-C3N4). The optimized Fe-NC-C3N4 exhibits excellent oxygen reduction/evolution reaction (ORR/OER) activities with a half-wave potential (E1/2) of 0.90 V vs. RHE and a promising low overpotential of 0.305 V vs. RHE at 10 mA·cm-2 in alkaline electrolyte. These superior catalytic activities are attributed to the combined effect between the atomic active sites and the well-balanced micro-meso-macropore structures. The homemade liquid Zn-air battery (ZAB) assembled with Fe-NC-C3N4 catalyst displays a power density of 133.59 mW·cm-2 and a significant energy density of 882.58 mAh·g-1, exceeding those of the equipment with commercial Pt/C-RuO2 (56.82 mW·cm-2 and 643.87 mAh·g-1, respectively). Particularly, the corresponding flexible wearable ZAB manifests outstanding foldability and cyclical stability. This work opens a new perspective for the structural design of single-atom catalysts in the energy storage and conversion area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Chen
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Catalytic Materials and Technology, Advanced Catalysis and Green Manufacturing Collaborative Innovation Center, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, China
| | - Shilong Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Catalytic Materials and Technology, Advanced Catalysis and Green Manufacturing Collaborative Innovation Center, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, China; Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu University of Technology, Changzhou 213001, China
| | - Jiawei Xia
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Catalytic Materials and Technology, Advanced Catalysis and Green Manufacturing Collaborative Innovation Center, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, China
| | - Le Li
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Catalytic Materials and Technology, Advanced Catalysis and Green Manufacturing Collaborative Innovation Center, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, China
| | - Xingyue Qian
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Catalytic Materials and Technology, Advanced Catalysis and Green Manufacturing Collaborative Innovation Center, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, China
| | - Fengxiang Yin
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Catalytic Materials and Technology, Advanced Catalysis and Green Manufacturing Collaborative Innovation Center, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, China
| | - Guangyu He
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Catalytic Materials and Technology, Advanced Catalysis and Green Manufacturing Collaborative Innovation Center, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, China.
| | - Haiqun Chen
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Catalytic Materials and Technology, Advanced Catalysis and Green Manufacturing Collaborative Innovation Center, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, China.
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14
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Liu H, Wang C, Ai X, Wang B, Bian Y, Wang G, Wang Y, Hu Z, Zhang Z. Stabilizing iron single atoms with electrospun hollow carbon nanofibers as self-standing air-electrodes for long-time Zn - air batteries. J Colloid Interface Sci 2023; 651:525-533. [PMID: 37556909 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2023.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2023] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
Developing iron-based single-atom catalysts (Fe SACs) with low cost, high activity and stability is vital for commercialising sustainable energy technologies. However, accurately controlling and identifying structure-activity relationships of Fe SACs remains a significant challenge. Herein, we report Fe/N co-doped carbon nanofiber membranes with highly exposed Fe-N4 sites (Fe/NCNFs), synthesized by electrospinning and pyrolysis. The three-dimensional (3D) hierarchical structure and atomically dispersed pyrrole-type Fe (III)-N4 active sites provide the as-prepared catalyst with a positive half-wave potential of 0.87 V and an ultralow Tafel slope of 53 mV dec-1. As an air cathode catalyst for liquid Zn - air batteries, it delivers a high open-circuit voltage (1.474 V), a large peak power density (190 mW cm-2) and a high durability of 2000 cycles at 5 mA cm-2. As a self-standing air cathode, the as-assembled solid-state Zn - air batteries also show stable cycling with a small discharge/charge voltage gap of 0.65 V, indicating great prospects for developing portable zinc - air batteries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huimin Liu
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Science and Technology Liaoning 185 Qianshan Zhong Road, Anshan 114051, PR China
| | - Chen Wang
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Science and Technology Liaoning 185 Qianshan Zhong Road, Anshan 114051, PR China
| | - Xinbo Ai
- School of Materials and Metallurgy, University of Science and Technology Liaoning Anshan, Liaoning 114051, PR China
| | - Binquan Wang
- School of Materials and Metallurgy, University of Science and Technology Liaoning Anshan, Liaoning 114051, PR China
| | - Yingqi Bian
- School of Materials and Metallurgy, University of Science and Technology Liaoning Anshan, Liaoning 114051, PR China
| | - Geyu Wang
- School of Materials and Metallurgy, University of Science and Technology Liaoning Anshan, Liaoning 114051, PR China
| | - Yongfei Wang
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Science and Technology Liaoning 185 Qianshan Zhong Road, Anshan 114051, PR China; School of Materials and Metallurgy, University of Science and Technology Liaoning Anshan, Liaoning 114051, PR China.
| | - Zhizhi Hu
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Science and Technology Liaoning 185 Qianshan Zhong Road, Anshan 114051, PR China
| | - Zhiqiang Zhang
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Science and Technology Liaoning 185 Qianshan Zhong Road, Anshan 114051, PR China.
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15
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Yu J, Su C, Shang L, Zhang T. Single-Atom-Based Oxygen Reduction Reaction Catalysts for Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells: Progress and Perspective. ACS NANO 2023; 17:19514-19525. [PMID: 37812403 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c06522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Single-atom catalysts (SACs) are regarded as promising non-noble-metal alternatives for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in proton exchange membrane fuel cells due to their high atom utilization efficiency and excellent catalytic properties. However, the insufficient long-term stability issues of SACs under the working conditions seriously hinder their practical application. In this perspective, the recent progress of SACs with optimized ORR catalytic activity is first reviewed. Then, the possible degradation mechanisms of SACs in the ORR process and effective strategies for improving their ORR durability are summarized. Finally, some challenges and opportunities are proposed to develop stable single-atom-based ORR electrocatalysts in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianmin Yu
- Key Laboratory of Photochemical Conversion and Optoelectronic Materials, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, People's Republic of China
- International Collaborative Laboratory of 2D Materials for Optoelectronic Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, Institute of Microscale Optoelectronics, Shenzhen University, Shen Zhen 518060, People's Republic of China
| | - Chenliang Su
- International Collaborative Laboratory of 2D Materials for Optoelectronic Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, Institute of Microscale Optoelectronics, Shenzhen University, Shen Zhen 518060, People's Republic of China
| | - Lu Shang
- Key Laboratory of Photochemical Conversion and Optoelectronic Materials, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, People's Republic of China
| | - Tierui Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Photochemical Conversion and Optoelectronic Materials, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, People's Republic of China
- Center of Materials Science and Optoelectronics Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, People's Republic of China
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16
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Zhang P, Chen K, Li J, Wang M, Li M, Liu Y, Pan Y. Bifunctional Single Atom Catalysts for Rechargeable Zinc-Air Batteries: From Dynamic Mechanism to Rational Design. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2303243. [PMID: 37283478 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202303243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Ever-growing demands for rechargeable zinc-air batteries (ZABs) call for efficient bifunctional electrocatalysts. Among various electrocatalysts, single atom catalysts (SACs) have received increasing attention due to the merits of high atom utilization, structural tunability, and remarkable activity. Rational design of bifunctional SACs relies heavily on an in-depth understanding of reaction mechanisms, especially dynamic evolution under electrochemical conditions. This requires a systematic study in dynamic mechanisms to replace current trial and error modes. Herein, fundamental understanding of dynamic oxygen reduction reaction and oxygen evolution reaction mechanisms for SACs is first presented combining in situ and/or operando characterizations and theoretical calculations. By highlighting structure-performance relationships, rational regulation strategies are particularly proposed to facilitate the design of efficient bifunctional SACs. Furthermore, future perspectives and challenges are discussed. This review provides a thorough understanding of dynamic mechanisms and regulation strategies for bifunctional SACs, which are expected to pave the avenue for exploring optimum single atom bifunctional oxygen catalysts and effective ZABs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Heavy Oil Processing, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao, 266580, China
| | - Kuo Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Heavy Oil Processing, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao, 266580, China
| | - Jiaye Li
- State Key Laboratory of Heavy Oil Processing, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao, 266580, China
| | - Minmin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Heavy Oil Processing, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao, 266580, China
| | - Min Li
- State Key Laboratory of Heavy Oil Processing, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao, 266580, China
| | - Yunqi Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Heavy Oil Processing, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao, 266580, China
| | - Yuan Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Heavy Oil Processing, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao, 266580, China
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17
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Han Y, Wei Q, Fu Y, Zhang D, Li P, Shan X, Yang H, Zhan X, Liu X, Yang W. Microwave-Assisted Synthesis of Highly Active Single-Atom Fe/N/C Catalysts for High-Performance Aqueous and Flexible All-Solid-State Zn-Air Batteries. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2300683. [PMID: 37078841 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202300683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
The development of low-cost single-atom electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is highly desired but remains a grand challenge. Superior to the conventional techniques, a microwave-assisted strategy is reported for rapid production of high-quality Fe/N/C single-atom catalysts (SACs) with profoundly enhanced reaction rate and remarkably reduced energy consumption. The as-synthesized catalysts exhibit an excellent ORR performance with a positive half-wave potential up to 0.90 V, a high turnover frequency of 0.76 s-1 , as well as a satisfied stability with a lost half-wave potential of just 27 mV over 9000 cycles (much better than that of Pt/C with 107 mV lost) and good methanol resistance. The open-circuit voltages of as-constructed aqueous and flexible all-solid-state Zn-air batteries (ZABs) are 1.56 and 1.52 V, respectively, higher than those of 20% Pt/C-based ones (i.e., 1.43 and 1.38 V, respectively). Impressively, they afford a peak power density of 235 mW cm-2 , which exceeds that of Pt/C (i.e., 186 mW cm-2 ), and is comparable to the best ones of Fe/N/C-based ZABs ever reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Han
- School of Materials Science and Chemical Engineering, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, P. R. China
- Institute of Micro/Nano Materials and Devices, Ningbo University of Technology, Ningbo, 315211, P. R. China
| | - Qiliang Wei
- Institute of Micro/Nano Materials and Devices, Ningbo University of Technology, Ningbo, 315211, P. R. China
| | - Yanqing Fu
- Institute of Micro/Nano Materials and Devices, Ningbo University of Technology, Ningbo, 315211, P. R. China
| | - Dongdong Zhang
- Institute of Micro/Nano Materials and Devices, Ningbo University of Technology, Ningbo, 315211, P. R. China
| | - Pan Li
- Institute of Micro/Nano Materials and Devices, Ningbo University of Technology, Ningbo, 315211, P. R. China
| | - Xiaofeng Shan
- Institute of Micro/Nano Materials and Devices, Ningbo University of Technology, Ningbo, 315211, P. R. China
| | - Hongli Yang
- Institute of Micro/Nano Materials and Devices, Ningbo University of Technology, Ningbo, 315211, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoqiang Zhan
- Institute of Micro/Nano Materials and Devices, Ningbo University of Technology, Ningbo, 315211, P. R. China
| | - Xincai Liu
- School of Materials Science and Chemical Engineering, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, P. R. China
| | - Weiyou Yang
- Institute of Micro/Nano Materials and Devices, Ningbo University of Technology, Ningbo, 315211, P. R. China
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18
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Xu C, Guo C, Liu J, Hu B, Chen H, Li G, Xu X, Shu C, Li H, Chen C. Bioinspired Hydrophobicity Coupled with Single Fe-N 4 Sites Promotes Oxygen Diffusion for Efficient Zinc-Air Batteries. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2207675. [PMID: 36897005 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202207675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The poor oxygen diffusion and sluggish oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) kinetics at multiphase interfaces in the cathode suppress the practical application of zinc-air batteries. Developing effective strategies to tackle the issue is of great significance for overcoming the performance bottleneck but remains challenging. Here, a multiscale hydrophobic surface is designed on the iron single-atom catalyst via a gas-phase fluorination-assisted method inspired by the structure of gas-trapping mastoids on lotus leaves. The hydrophobic Fe-FNC attains a higher peak power density of up to 226 mW cm-2 , a long durability of up close to 140 h, and better cyclic durability of up to 300 cycles compared to the corresponding Pt/C-based Zn-air battery. Experiments and theoretical calculations indicate that the formed more triple-phase interfaces and exposed isolated Fe-N4 sites are proposed as the governing factors in boosting electrocatalytic ORR activity and remarkable cycling durability for Zn-air batteries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuanlan Xu
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 401331, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Materials Surface & Interface Science, Chongqing University of Arts and Sciences, Chongqing, 402160, China
| | - Chaozhong Guo
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 401331, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Materials Surface & Interface Science, Chongqing University of Arts and Sciences, Chongqing, 402160, China
| | - Jianping Liu
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Materials Surface & Interface Science, Chongqing University of Arts and Sciences, Chongqing, 402160, China
| | - Bihao Hu
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Hongdian Chen
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Materials Surface & Interface Science, Chongqing University of Arts and Sciences, Chongqing, 402160, China
| | - Guijun Li
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Materials Surface & Interface Science, Chongqing University of Arts and Sciences, Chongqing, 402160, China
| | - Xinru Xu
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Materials Surface & Interface Science, Chongqing University of Arts and Sciences, Chongqing, 402160, China
| | - Chenyang Shu
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Materials Surface & Interface Science, Chongqing University of Arts and Sciences, Chongqing, 402160, China
| | - Honglin Li
- College of Physics and Electronic Engineering, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Changguo Chen
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 401331, China
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19
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Yuan M, Li C, Liu Y, Lan H, Chen Y, Liu K, Wang L. Single atom iron implanted polydopamine-modified hollow leaf-like N-doped carbon catalyst for improving oxygen reduction reaction and zinc-air batteries. J Colloid Interface Sci 2023; 645:350-358. [PMID: 37150008 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2023.04.162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Metal-nitrogen-carbon (MNC) catalysts, especially FeNC catalysts, are considered promising candidates to replace Pt-based catalysts, but FeNC catalysts still present certain challenges in controlled-synthesis and energy device applications. In this paper, through the modification strategy of poly-dopamine (PDA) to maintain 2D leaf morphology to obtain more active sites and further adjust the N content, N-doped porous carbon monatomic iron catalyst (FeSA/NPCs) with rich-nitrogen content was prepared. XPS analysis showed that compared with C-ZIF-Fe, the contents of graphite nitrogen and pyridine nitrogen increased in FeSA/NPCs. The hollow structure with defects and Fe-N4 configuration of Fe single atom show more active sites for the catalyst, and positively promote the diffusion of reactants, oxygen exchange and electron transport, thus changing the reaction kinetics and promoting the improvement of ORR activity. FeSA/NPCs electrocatalyst exhibits good half-wave potential and onset potential at low loading (E1/2 = 0.93 V, Eonset = 1.0 V). In addition, the methanol tolerance, stability and Tafel slope are better than those of commercial Pt/C. Excitingly, the zinc-air cell with FeSA/NPCs as cathode material achieves a power density of 223 mW cm-2 and exhibits a long-term stability higher than 200 h. This work shows that nitrogen-doped porous carbon materials as well as iron monoatoms play important roles in improving electrocatalytic performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Eco-chemical Engineering, International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Eco-chemical Engineering and Green Manufacturing, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266042, China
| | - Chen Li
- Key Laboratory of Eco-chemical Engineering, International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Eco-chemical Engineering and Green Manufacturing, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266042, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Eco-chemical Engineering, International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Eco-chemical Engineering and Green Manufacturing, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266042, China
| | - Haikuo Lan
- Key Laboratory of Eco-chemical Engineering, International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Eco-chemical Engineering and Green Manufacturing, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266042, China
| | - Yuting Chen
- Key Laboratory of Eco-chemical Engineering, International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Eco-chemical Engineering and Green Manufacturing, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266042, China
| | - Kang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Eco-chemical Engineering, International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Eco-chemical Engineering and Green Manufacturing, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266042, China; Chaofeng Steel Structure Group Co., Ltd., Hangzhou 311215, China.
| | - Lei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Eco-chemical Engineering, International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Eco-chemical Engineering and Green Manufacturing, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266042, China; College of Environment and Safety Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266042, China.
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20
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Ma FX, Liu ZQ, Zhang G, Fan HS, Du Y, Zhen L, Xu CY. Self-Sacrificing Template Synthesis of Carbon Nanosheets Assembled Hollow Spheres with Abundant Active Fe-N 4 O 1 Moieties for Electrocatalytic Oxygen Reduction. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2207991. [PMID: 36843282 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202207991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Single-atom Fe-N-C (Fe1 -N-C) materials represent the benchmarked electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). However, single Fe atoms in the carbon skeletons cannot be fully utilized due to the mass transfer limitation, severely restricting their intrinsic ORR properties. Herein, a self-sacrificing template strategy is developed to fabricate ultrathin nanosheets assembled Fe1 -N-C hollow microspheres (denoted as Fe1 /N-HCMs) by rational carbonization of Fe3+ chelating polydopamine coated melamine cyanuric acid complex. The shell of Fe1 /N-HCMs is constructed by ultrathin nanosheets with thickness of only 2 nm, which is supposed to be an ideal platform to isolate and fully expose single metal atoms. Benefiting from unique hierarchical hollow architecture with highly open porous structure, 2 nm-thick ultrathin nanosheet subunits and abundant Fe-N4 O1 active sites revealed by X-ray absorption fine structure analysis, the Fe1 /N-HCMs exhibit high ORR performance with a positive half-wave potential of 0.88 V versus the reversible hydrogen electrode and robust stability. When served as air-cathode catalysts with ultralow loading mass of 0.25 mg cm-2 , Fe1 /N-HCMs based Zn-air batteries present a maximum power density of 187 mW cm-2 and discharge specific capacity of 806 mA h gZn -1 in primary Zn-air batteries, all exceeding those of commercial Pt/C.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei-Xiang Ma
- Sauvage Laboratory for Smart Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Zheng-Qi Liu
- Sauvage Laboratory for Smart Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Guobin Zhang
- Institute of Materials Research, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Hong-Shuang Fan
- Sauvage Laboratory for Smart Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Yue Du
- Peng Cheng Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Liang Zhen
- Sauvage Laboratory for Smart Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen, 518055, China
- MOE Key Laboratory of Micro-Systems and Micro-Structures Manufacturing, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150080, China
| | - Cheng-Yan Xu
- Sauvage Laboratory for Smart Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen, 518055, China
- MOE Key Laboratory of Micro-Systems and Micro-Structures Manufacturing, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150080, China
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21
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Liu K, Fu J, Luo T, Ni G, Li H, Zhu L, Wang Y, Lin Z, Sun Y, Cortés E, Liu M. Potential-Dependent Active Moiety of Fe-N-C Catalysts for the Oxygen Reduction Reaction. J Phys Chem Lett 2023; 14:3749-3756. [PMID: 37043683 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpclett.3c00583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
The real active moiety of Fe-N-C single-atom catalysts (SACs) during the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) depends on the applied potential. Here, we examine the ORR activity of various SAC active moieties (Fe-N4, Fe-(OH)N4, Fe-(O2)N4, and Fe-(OH2)N4) over a wide potential window ranging from -0.8 to 1.0 V (vs. SHE) using constant potential density functional theory calculations. We show that the ORR activity of the Fe-N4 moiety is hindered by the slow *OH protonation, while the Fe-(OH2)N4 (0.4 V ≤ U ≤ 1.0 V), *O2-assisted Fe-N4 (-0.6 V ≤ U ≤ 0.2 V), and Fe-(OH)N4 (U = -0.8 V) moieties dominate the ORR activity of the Fe-N-C catalysts at different potential windows. These oxygenated species modified the single-atom Fe sites and can promote *OH protonation by regulating the electron occupancy of the Fe 3dz2 (spin-up) and Fe 3dxz (spin-down) orbitals. Overall, our findings provide guidance for understanding the active moieties of SACs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kang Liu
- School of Metallurgy and Environment, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410083, P. R. China
- Hunan Joint International Research Center for Carbon Dioxide Resource Utilization, School of Physics and Electronics, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410083, P. R. China
| | - Junwei Fu
- Hunan Joint International Research Center for Carbon Dioxide Resource Utilization, School of Physics and Electronics, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410083, P. R. China
| | - Tao Luo
- Hunan Joint International Research Center for Carbon Dioxide Resource Utilization, School of Physics and Electronics, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410083, P. R. China
| | - Ganghai Ni
- Hunan Joint International Research Center for Carbon Dioxide Resource Utilization, School of Physics and Electronics, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410083, P. R. China
| | - Hongmei Li
- Hunan Joint International Research Center for Carbon Dioxide Resource Utilization, School of Physics and Electronics, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410083, P. R. China
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450001, P. R. China
| | - Li Zhu
- Nanoinstitute Munich, Faculty of Physics, Ludwig Maximilians Universität München, 80539 München, Germany
| | - Ye Wang
- School of Energy and Power Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Zhang Lin
- School of Metallurgy and Environment, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410083, P. R. China
| | - Yifei Sun
- School of Energy and Power Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
- Research Center for Advanced Energy and Carbon Neutrality, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Emiliano Cortés
- Nanoinstitute Munich, Faculty of Physics, Ludwig Maximilians Universität München, 80539 München, Germany
| | - Min Liu
- Hunan Joint International Research Center for Carbon Dioxide Resource Utilization, School of Physics and Electronics, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410083, P. R. China
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22
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Liu J, Liao J, Huang K, Dong J, He G, Gong Z, Fei H. A General Strategy to Remove Metal Aggregates toward Metal-Nitrogen-Carbon Catalysts with Exclusive Atomic Dispersion. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2211398. [PMID: 36691878 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202211398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Metal- and nitrogen-doped nanocarbons (M-N-Cs) are promising alternatives to precious metals for catalyzing electrochemical energy conversion processes. However, M-N-Cs synthesized by high-temperature pyrolysis frequently suffer from compositional heterogeneity with the simultaneous presence of atomically dispersed M-Nx sites and crystalline metal nanoparticles (NPs), which hinders the identification of active sites and rational optimization in performance. Herein, a universal and efficient strategy is reported to obtain both precious- and nonprecious-metal-based M-N-Cs (M = Pt, Fe, Co, Ni, Mn, Cu, Zn) with exclusive atomic dispersion by making use of ammonium iodide as the etchant to remove excessive metal aggregates at high temperature. Taking Pt-N-C as a proof-of-concept demonstration, the complete removal of Pt NPs in Pt-N-C enables clarification on the contributions of the atomic Pt-Nx moieties and Pt NPs to the catalytic activity toward the hydrogen evolution reaction. Combined electrochemical measurements and theoretical calculations identify that the atomic Pt-Nx moieties by themselves possess negligible activity, but they can significantly boost the activity of the Pt NPs via the synergistic effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianbin Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Advanced Catalytic Engineering Research Center of the Ministry of Education and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, P. R. China
| | - Jiangwen Liao
- Beijing Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
| | - Kang Huang
- State Key Laboratory for Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Advanced Catalytic Engineering Research Center of the Ministry of Education and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, P. R. China
| | - Juncai Dong
- Beijing Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
| | - Guanchao He
- State Key Laboratory for Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Advanced Catalytic Engineering Research Center of the Ministry of Education and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, P. R. China
| | - Zhichao Gong
- State Key Laboratory for Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Advanced Catalytic Engineering Research Center of the Ministry of Education and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, P. R. China
| | - Huilong Fei
- State Key Laboratory for Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Advanced Catalytic Engineering Research Center of the Ministry of Education and College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, 410082, P. R. China
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