Janus Electrocatalysts Containing MOF-Derived Carbon Networks and NiFe-LDH Nanoplates for Rechargeable Zinc-Air Batteries

Abstract

© 2019 American Chemical Society. The lack of efficient and durable bifunctional cathodic catalysts largely prevents the wide-scale applications of rechargeable Zn-air batteries (RZABs). Herein, we report a bifunctional, durable, and noble-metal-free electrocatalyst for RZABs by compositing a metal-organic framework (MOF) derived carbon network (MCN) and NiFe-layered double hydroxide (LDH) nanoplates. This design utilizes the conductivity and ultrahigh pore volume of the carbon network, boosting the catalytic activity of LDH and enhancing the catalytic durability in both half-cell measurements and RZAB assemblies. The RZAB with our MCN-LDH catalyst can discharge and recharge consistently at a current density of 10 mA cm-2 for at least 5 days, tripling the life hour of RZAB with noble metal catalysts.