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Research Article

Three-dimensional (3D) interconnected networks fabricated via in-situ growth of N-doped graphene/carbon nanotubes on Co-containing carbon nanofibers for enhanced oxygen reduction

Qi Shi1, Yingde Wang1( ), Zhongmin Wang2, Yongpeng Lei3( ), Bing Wang1, Nan Wu1, Cheng Han1, Song Xie1, Yanzi Gou1
Science and Technology on Advanced Ceramic Fibers and Composites LaboratoryNational University of Defense TechnologyChangsha410073China
Guangxi Key Laboratory of Information MaterialsGuilin University of Electronic TechnologyGuilin541004China
College of Basic EducationNational University of Defense TechnologyChangsha410073China
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Graphical Abstract

Abstract

The strategy of combining highly conductive frameworks with abundant active sites is desirable in the preparation of alternative catalysts to commercial Pt/C for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). In this study, N-doped graphene (NG) and carbon nanotubes (CNT) were grown in-situ on Co-containing carbon nanofibers (CNF) to form three-dimensional (3D) interconnected networks. The NG and CNT bound the interlaced CNF together, facilitating electron transfer and providing additional active sites. The 3D interconnected fiber networks exhibited excellent ORR catalytic behavior with an onset potential of 0.924 V (vs. reversible hydrogen electrode) and a higher current density than Pt/C beyond 0.720 V. In addition, the hybrid system exhibited superior stability and methanol tolerance to Pt/C in alkaline media. This method can be extended to the design of other 3D interconnected network architectures for energy storage and conversion applications.

Keywords

oxygen reductionN-doped graphenecarbon nanotubesin-situ grownthree-dimensional (3D) interconnected fiber networks

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Nano Research
Volume 9 Issue 2,
February 2016
Pages 317-328
DOI: 10.1007/s12274-015-0911-y
Cite this article:
Shi Q, Wang Y, Wang Z, et al. Three-dimensional (3D) interconnected networks fabricated via in-situ growth of N-doped graphene/carbon nanotubes on Co-containing carbon nanofibers for enhanced oxygen reduction. Nano Research, 2016, 9(2): 317-328. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12274-015-0911-y

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Received: 19 July 2015
Revised: 30 September 2015
Accepted: 04 October 2015
Published: 10 December 2015
© Tsinghua University Press and Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2015
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