Non-platinum group metal electrocatalysts using metal organic framework materials and method of preparation.

Abstract

A method of prepg. a nitrogen contg. electrode catalyst by converting a high surface area metal-org. framework (MOF) material free of platinum group metals that includes a transition metal, an org. ligand, and an org. solvent via a high temp. thermal treatment to form catalytic active sites in the MOF. At least a portion of the contained org. solvent may be replaced with a nitrogen contg. org. solvent or an organometallic compd. or a transition metal salt to enhance catalytic performance. The electrode catalysts may be used in various electrochem. systems, including a proton exchange membrane fuel cell. [on SciFinder(R)]