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Corresponding Author

Tai-zhong HUANG(chm_huangtz@ujn.edu.cn)

Abstract

In this research, the reduced graphene oxide (rGO) supported sheet-like NiO (NiO/rGO) and spherical-like NiO (NiO/N-rGO) catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) were prepared. The structures, morphologies and chemical states of the two catalysts were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The electrochemical catalytic performance of the two catalysts for ORR were investigated by cyclic voltammetry (CV), Tafel, linear sweeping voltammetry (LSV), rotating disc electrode (RDE) and rotating ring disc electrode (RRDE) tests. Electrochemical results showed that the current density and onset potential (about 0.89 V) of nitrogen doped rGO (N-rGO) supported spherical-like NiO were close to those of commercial Pt/C(20%) catalysts. RDE and RRDE data proved that the ORR happened mainly through 4-electron route in an alkaline electrolyte with both catalysts. The spherical-like NiO/N-rGO catalyst showed great promise as alternative for Pt-based catalyst.

Graphical Abstract

Keywords

nickel oxide, nitrogen doping, morphology, catalyst, oxygen reduction reaction

Publication Date

2019-10-28

Online Available Date

2019-02-01

Revised Date

2019-01-21

Received Date

2018-12-20

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