Hierarchically porous Co–N–C catalysts derived from metal–tetrazole frameworks for efficient oxygen reduction

Abstract

We designed and synthesized hierarchical porous Co–N–C catalysts derived from metal–tetrazole frameworks. Tetrazole releases a large amount of gas upon thermal decomposition, forming a hierarchical porous structure, improves mass and charge transfer, and prevents excessive metal agglomeration. The optimal Co-4ptz-K-M-800 outperforms Pt/C in the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR).