Pyrolyzed phthalocyanines as surrogate carbon catalysts: Initial insights into oxygen-transfer mechanisms

► Carbon reactivity depends on central coordinating atom. ► Reactivity loss is due to annealing rather than porosity collapse. ► Best catalytic activity was shown by Co-phthalocyanine heat-treated at 700 °C. ► Coordinating metal increases thermal stability in inert atmosphere. ► Coordinating metal acts as gasification catalyst below decomposition temperature.