Bio-Sourced Zeolite-Templated Carbons for the Development of Efficient ORR Catalysts

Bio-sourced Zeolite-Templated Carbons (ZTCs) were achieved through the use of glycerol as carbon source. A systematic study of the textural and chemical properties is presented on ZTCs achieved at synthesis temperatures between 300 degrees C and 800 degrees C. Textural properties are importantly impacted through increasing synthesis temperature. ZTCs featuring high textural quality were synthesized at temperatures as low as 400 degrees C. Oxygen content was further found to be importantly impacted by the synthesis temperature. This latter plays a crucial role when materials are functionalized with thiourea, as high oxygen content allows for maximizing the incorporation of N and S in the ZTC. Functionalized bio-sourced ZTCs allowed for achieving unparalleled ORR activities and hydroxyl selectivities when compared to other functionalized carbon materials such as graphene-based catalysts.