Co, Fe decorated N, S co-doped porous carbon enables high stability for the oxygen reduction reaction

Fabricating highly competent and cost-effective catalysts is essential for promoting the sluggish kinetics associated with the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). Herein, a new type of Fe, Co decorated porous carbon composite catalyst co-doped with S and N (FeCo–SNC) was prepared by a simple carbonization process. Interestingly, FeCo–SNC inherits not only the pore structure but also the large surface area of the ZIF-67 dodecahedron. Furthermore, the electronic configuration of the two catalytic centers in Fe–N–C and Co–NC was customized. On the basis of synergetic coordination between the two active sites, the fabricated FeCo–SNC showed prior stability for the ORR even after 10 000 cycles of cyclic voltammetry measurement, besides the great limiting current density of 5.99 mA cm−2 and high half potential of 0.856 V (vs. reversible hydrogen electrode), surpassing the commercially available Pt/C catalyst. Moreover, the primary active site of Fe–N–C was regulated, providing the highest catalytic activity for the ORR. This research offers a new perspective on enhancing carbon-based catalysts for the ORR without relying on precious metals and introduces a strategic method for controlling active centers.