Electrospun 3D structured double perovskite oxide PrBa_0.8Ca_0.2Co₂O_5+δ bifunctional electrocatalyst for zinc‐air battery

Abstract

To meet the crucial demand for efficient and durable rechargeable zinc‐air battery (ZAB), novel bifunctional oxygen electrocatalysts are needed. In this work, we report a novel 3D structured double perovskite oxide PrBa0.8Ca0.2Co2O5+δ (3D‐PBCC) electrocatalyst by a facile electrospinning method. The 3D‐PBCC electrocatalyst demonstrates greatly improved bifunctional activity when compared with the classic powdery PBCC electrocatalyst synthesized by the conventional sol–gel method. Moreover, turning the PBCC electrocatalyst from powder to 3D structure can simultaneously enhance the performance and durability of the ZAB. The specific capacity is greatly improved from 769 to 849 mA h g−1, the peak output power density is significantly enhanced from 113 to 185 mW cm−2, and the charge–discharge cycling stability is strongly enlarged from 220 to 500 h. These can be ascribed to the enhanced specific surface area, enlarged oxygen vacancies, and improved hydrophobicity. This study offers references to design novel bifunctional oxide electrocatalysts for practical ZAB application.