Correction: MOF derived PtCo/Co3O4 nanocomposites in carbonaceous matrices as high performance ORR electrocatalysts synthesized via laser ablation techniques
Rapidly expanding global energy demands due to fast paced human technology interfaces have propelled fuel cell technology as a sustainable energy conversion alternative. Nonetheless, the rational development of such technology demands the engineering of low cost durable materials that can exhibit and retain specific electrocatalytic activities to sustain the electrochemical energy conversions. Herein, we present our recently patented tandem laser ablation synthesis in solution galvanic replacement reaction (LASiS GRR) as a facile technique for the synthesis of Pt Co bimetallic nanoparticles encapsulated in the simultaneously formed metal organic frameworks (MOF) phases of ZIF 67 out of the laser ablation process. Upon pyrolytic post treatments, these structures are found to be partially altered, giving rise to the formation of graphitic shell coated Pt Co bimetallic nanocomposites (NCs) that are spatially framed onto Co3O4 decorated carbonaceous matrices. We investigate the effect of the Pt precursor (K2PtCl4) concentrations during the LASiS GRR technique in facilitating a higher degree of Pt Co alloying in the phases as the K2PtCl4 initial concentrations are increased from 65 to 125 mg L 1. Our results from subsequent electrochemical characterizations reveal the ability of the as manufactured NCs in the carbonaceous matrix to exhibit superior electrocatalytic activities towards oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) while maintaining their long term stabilities in a highly concentrated alkaline media (KOH 1 M) Specifically, the NCs synthesized from a 125 mg L 1 K2PtCl4 solution demonstrated an extraordinary 5 fold enhancement in their specific mass activities as compared to state of the art commercial Pt catalysts. These outstanding performances are attributed to the unique configurations arising from cooperative catalytic activities (spill over effects) between the graphitic shell coated bimetallic Pt Co nanoparticles and the electrochemically active Co3O4 decorated carbon matrix support.