Carbon nanomaterials as metal-free catalysts in next generation fuel cells

A new class of carbon nanomaterials has been discovered as metal-free catalysts to dramatically reduce the cost and increase the efficiency of fuel cells. This article highlights recent progresses in this emerging research area.

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► We report metal-free catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR).
► They can greatly reduce the cost and increase the efficiency of fuel cells.
► The enhanced ORR activity is achieved by either intramolecular or intermolecular charge-transfers.
► This will open up the rich field of metal-free electrocatalysts with vast opportunities.