Co/CoP embedded in a hairy nitrogen-doped carbon polyhedron as an advanced tri-functional electrocatalyst

The design and synthesis of a multi-functional electrocatalyst with low cost and high efficiency is still a great challenge. Herein, we report the rational design and realization of a tri-functional electrocatalyst featuring Co/CoP embedded in a hairy nitrogen-doped carbon polyhedral (Co/CoP–HNC) derived from common metal organic frameworks (MOFs). The components of Co, CoP, and hairy nitrogen-doped carbon in the catalyst respectively render catalytic activity, high electrochemical surface area, and electronic conductivity. The synergy of the tailored Co/CoP–HNC catalyst provides high activity for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), oxygen evolution reaction (OER), and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). The catalytic performance and assembly feasibility are further demonstrated in overall water splitting and Zn–air battery tests, and both revealed high efficiency and long durability of the proposed electrocatalyst.