One pot production of Co core/carbon shell materials and their electrocatalytic properties

The oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is a kinetically sluggish reaction because it requires the transfer of four electrons. In this work, one-pot process involving thermal treatment of Co(II) acetylacetonate is developed. The resulting core–shell material (Co@C-800) consists of metallic Co cores encapsulated by carbon-based layered shells. Morphological analysis reveals the core–shell structures, with core particles surrounded by carbon networks. Chemical characterization using various spectroscopic techniques indicates the presence of metallic Co as the major component in Co@C-800, with minor Co species exhibiting higher oxidation states. Raman spectroscopy confirms the formation of sp2-hybridized carbon shells. Co@C-800 displays efficient electrocatalytic ORR performance, evidenced by high onset and half-wave potentials. The excellent durability and stability of Co@C-800, demonstrated through resistance to methanol poisoning and cyclic testing, suggest the potential of core–shell materials as a practical electrocatalyst.