One-step nanocasting synthesis of sulfur and nitrogen co-doped ordered mesoporous carbons as efficient electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction

Ordered mesoporous carbon co-doped with sulfur and nitrogen (SN-OMC) is synthesized via one-step nanocasting route. Diphenylthiocarbazone is used as a single precursor for carbon, sulfur and nitrogen in the preparation of SN-OMCs. These catalysts are subjected to the physicochemical characterization and electrochemical evaluation toward the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in an alkaline electrolyte. SN-OMC obtained at 900 degrees C exhibits a high electrocatalytic activity for ORR and the impressive durability and methanol-tolerance. The synergistic effect of nitrogen and sulfur in mesoporous carbon walls may contribute to high oxygen electroreduction performance of SN-OMC. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.