One-pot solvothermal synthesis of doped graphene with the designed nitrogen type used as a Pt support for fuel cells

Nanoflower-like, nitrogen-doped graphene (NG) with pure sp2 hybridized carbon and designed nitrogen types was synthesized by a low temperature solvothermal process. HRTEM results indicated that the product consists of many NG sheets with about 6–10 graphitic layers. Electrochemical test showed that NG has a much higher durability as a Pt support for fuel cells than commercial carbon black (Vulcan XC-72). The possible reasons have been analyzed based on the physical and chemical characterization.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights►Novel nanoflower-like, nitrogen-doped graphene with pure sp2 hybrid carbon ►Solvothermal process with a lower synthesis temperature (~ 160 °C) than previously reported ►Controllable doped-nitrogen types by special precursor ►Much higher durability as a Pt support for fuel cells