Recent advances in carbon‐based bifunctional oxygen electrocatalysts for Zn − air batteries

Abstract

Carbon‐based composites have been known as the most promising bifunctional electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction/evolution reaction (ORR/OER) owing to their excellent electrocatalytic properties. In this Minireview, various types of carbon‐based bifunctional oxygen electrocatalysts, including metal‐free carbon and transition‐metal‐based carbon hybrids are reviewed to summarize progresses in rechargeable Zn−air batteries that are a promising technology to cope with the future energy demands. After a brief introduction to Zn−air batteries, some representative works are highlighted to understand the correlation between the electrocatalytic properties and the structure, the composition, and the synthesis method of carbon‐based materials. Finally, the challenges and perspectives for future research of carbon‐based bifunctional oxygen reduction/evolution catalysts are also outlined.