Metal-Organic Framework-Derived Non-Precious Metal Nanocatalysts for Oxygen Reduction Reaction

Abstract

By virtue of diverse structures and tunable properties, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have presented extensive applications including gas capture, energy storage, and catalysis. Recently, synthesis of MOFs and their derived nanomaterials provide an opportunity to obtain competent oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) electrocatalysts due to their large surface area, controllable composition and pore structure. This review starts with the introduction of MOFs and current challenges of ORR, followed by the discussion of MOF-based non-precious metal nanocatalysts (metal-free and metal/metal oxide-based carbonaceous materials) and their application in ORR electrocatalysis. Current issues in MOF-derived ORR catalysts and some corresponding strategies in terms of composition and morphology to enhance their electrocatalytic performance are highlighted. In the last section, a perspective for future development of MOFs and their derivatives as catalysts for ORR is discussed.