Graphene-loaded and Mn-doped SrCoO3 perovskite oxide as a cathode catalyst for aluminum–air battery

• Published in: Journal of materials research and technology 2023-05, Vol.24, p.4379-4389
• Main Authors: Qin, S.P., Wang, Y., Li, Y.C., Zhang, W.W., Yao, B., Zhang, X.Y.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Al–air battery; Graphene-loaded; Oxygen reduction reaction; Perovskite catalyst; SrCoO3
• ISSN: 2238-7854
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jmrt.2023.04.073

In this study, a SrCoO3 perovskite catalyst is prepared by sol–gel method, and modified by loading graphene and doping Mn. The effects of 20% graphene loading and 50% Mn doping on the performance of SrCoO3 perovskite as a cathode catalyst for Al–air battery are studied by morphology observation, electrochemical performance analysis, and full battery test. The results show that 20% graphene loading alone and 50% Mn doping alone do not significantly improve the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalytic performance. However, 50% Mn-doped SrCoO3 perovskite exhibits a fine grain size, cubic hexagonal mixed structure, and low lattice stability. The 20% graphene-loaded SrCoO3 perovskite reduces the oxygen absorption capacity and elevates the peak potential of ORR reaction. After 20% graphene-loaded SrCo0.5Mn0.5O3 effectively improves the catalytic performance of ORR. The interfacial interaction between graphene and SrCoO3 elevates the peak potential of ORR reaction, but no interaction occurs between graphene and SrCo0.5Mn0.5O3 interface. The catalyst containing the graphene-loaded SrCo0.5Mn0.5O3 perovskite exhibits outstanding electrocatalytic ORR activity and is suitable for use as cathode catalyst in Al–air battery.