One-step synthesized Pt-dispersed N, P co-doped graphene as an efficient oxygen reduction reaction ORR electrocatalyst

A simple yet effective strategy to simultaneously deposit Platinum and co-doped (Nitrogen & Phosphorous) graphite oxide (rGO) using microwave irradiation has been carried out, labeled as Pt/NP-rGO. The successful deposition of Pt was confirmed using X-ray diffractogram (XRD), transmission electron microscope (TEM), and selected area electron diffraction (SAED) pattern. The Pt particles with average size of 3.5 nm were deposited during microwave irradiation. Further, co-doping was confirmed using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The synthesized Pt/NP-rGO was analyzed in situ as an oxygen reduction reaction electrocatalyst in acidic medium. Our results indicate that Pt/NP-rGO follows a four e⁻ ORR process attributed to increased adhesion between the Pt and N, P co-doped graphene oxide due to e⁻ transfer from graphene to N and P atoms, thus indicating its potential in energy-related applications as an effective ORR electrocatalyst.