Highly active and durable templated non-PGM cathode catalysts derived from iron and aminoantipyrine

Highly active and durable non-platinum group metal (non-PGM) cathode catalysts were synthesized using a sacrificial support method (SSM) from iron–aminoantipyrine (Fe–AAPyr) derived materials. The prepared materials have been characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), surface area analysis (BET), and rotating disk electrode (RDE) methods. It was found that main experimental parameters that affect catalytic activity on the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) are heat treatment temperature and the ratio of iron to aminoantipyrine. The activity of the Fe–AAPyr catalysts was found to be comparable to commercial Pt/C catalysts and state-of-the-art non-PGM catalysts. Accelerated durability RDE tests (cycling between 0.2 and 1.1 V) revealed high stability of synthesized materials in acid media.

► First reported templated non-PGM catalyst derived from hetero-poly-amine precursor. ► The catalytic activity in ORR in acid is 60% of the commercial 20 wt.% Pt/C standard. ► High durability under RDE test: retaining 90% of its activity after 1000 cycles.