A graphene quantum dot/phthalocyanine conjugate: a synergistic catalyst for the oxygen reduction reaction

Abstract

Graphene quantum dots (GQDs) have gained great interest due to their chemical stabilities, unique catalytic activities, and feasible chemical functionalization opportunities; these have opened up new applications in the fields of chemical energy conversion and storage. Herein, we synthesized iron(II) phthalocyanine (FePC)–GQD conjugates as facile electrocatalysts for the enhanced oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), which is critical in energy conversion systems of fuel cells. This unique combination of materials (GQD–FePC) exhibits a greatly enhanced onset potential via a four-electron pathway in an alkaline electrolyte. Moreover, the synthesized electrocatalyst shows distinguished tolerance toward methanol and carbon monoxide, which paves the way for its commercialization as an electrocatalyst.