Reconstruction of spinel Co3O4 by inert Zn2+ towards enhanced oxygen catalytic activity

Abstract

Zn_xCo_3−xO₄ (0 ≤ x≤ 1) coupled with nitrogen-doped hollow porous carbon spheres exhibits a superior oxygen catalytic activity. A Zn–air battery using Zn_0.6Co_2.4O₄/NHCS as a cathodic catalyst affords a high-power density (130 mW cm⁻²) and excellent stability. The effect of reconstruction of catalytically active Co ions induced by Zn is well-investigated.