Lignin-derived Fe–N–C electrocatalyst with 3D porous structure for efficient oxygen reduction reaction.

Developing low-cost, high-performance oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalysts is crucial for the commercialization of fuel cells and zinc-air batteries. Herein, we report a lignin-derived Fe/N co-doped 3D porous carbon electrocatalyst Fe-NLC-1 as an alternative to commercial Pt/C catalysts, which was synthesized by a green and facile in situ carbonization strategy. Fe-NLC-1 exhibits higher oxygen reduction activity with a half-wave potential (E 1/2) of 0.90 V vs. RHE than commercial 20 wt% Pt/C (E 1/2 = 0.85 V) in the alkaline conditions, as well as excellent methanol tolerance and stability. Furthermore, the Zn-air battery loaded with Fe-NLC-1 exhibits a maximum power density of 125 mW cm−2, an open circuit voltage of 1.477 V, and stable discharge performance, which are comparable or even better than the commercial Pt/C. This study highlights the potential of biomass-derived porous carbon materials for the development of high-performance ORR electrocatalysts. [Display omitted] • Industrial waste lignosulfonate is used to prepare an oxygen reduction catalyst. • The precursor of the porous carbon material is prepared using an in-situ template method. • Fe-NLC-1 with a 3D porous structure has a high specific surface area and excellent ORR performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]