CdMn Bimetallic Complex-Derived Manganese–Nitrogen Species as Electrocatalysts for an Oxygen Reduction Reaction

Fe–N–C catalysts exhibit promising activity toward the catalytic oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). However, applicability of such catalysts is limited by serious oxidative corrosion via the Fenton reaction. In this feature work, we prepared manganese–nitrogen species by pyrolyzing a bimetal CdMn and P-phenylenediamine organic complex (CdMn–PPD) under different atmospheres for the first time. The experimental results suggest that the carbonized atmosphere deeply affects the graphitization degree, pore structure of carbon, and the formation of Mn–N active sites. Of the three prepared catalysts, Mn@NPC–NH3 exhibited the greatest Mn–N and pyridinic N content and delivered excellent ORR activity (Eonset: 0.95 V, E1/2: 0.83 V). Even more impressive, the Fenton reaction was substantially restrained by this catalyst. Overall, the Mn@NPC–NH3 offers superior stability to that of Fe–N–C catalysts, providing new insight for further explorations of excellent non-noble metal ORR catalysts.