Controlling the formation of active sites of non-noble metal (Fe-N-C) catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction

Abstract

Low reactivity of oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is one of the major issues to deteriorate the performance of fuel cells. Fe-based catalysts are used for ORR due to cost-effectiveness and excellent oxygen adsorption property, but the low number of active sites limits the catalytic activity. In this study, we introduced the novel strategy to increase the number of active sites through reducing Fe aggregation for improving the activity of ORR. The effect of an increase of active sites and a construction of rational catalytic structure on catalytic activity was investigated by physico-chemical characterization and electrochemical analysis. Finally, these catalysts were used in anion exchange fuel cells, demonstrating the feasibility in practical application.