Synthesis of 5,10,15,20-tetrakisphenylporphins on a carbon support for the cathodic reduction of oxygen in fuel cells

Article abstract of DOI:10.1002/bbpc.198800335

Several substituted Fe- and Co-containing tetraphenylporphins I were loaded on carbon either by adsorption from acetone or by in situ synthesis on the carbon support. The porphin/carbon combinations were pyrolyzed at 800°C. The electrocatalytic activities in the reduction of dioxygen were investigated in alkaline (KOH) and acid (H₂SO₄) solutions using porous Teflon-bonded carbon electrodes impregnated with the catalysts. At 700 mV high current densities of 75 mA/cm² in acid solution and up to 90 mA/cm² in alkaline solution were obtained.