Pyrenetetraone-based covalent organic framework as an effective electrocatalyst for oxygen reduction reaction

A novel porous and crystalline two-dimensional (2D) electrochemically active covalent organic framework (COF) based on ortho-quinone units has been prepared as an innovative approach towards the development of organic cathode materials with multiple redox sites as an efficient electrocatalyst for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). In contrast with most of the previously reported COFs as electrocatalysts for the ORR, the electrocatalytic application of this material towards ORR has been investigated without adding any metal or conductive supporting material and avoiding any additional carbonization step. Additionally, the electrochemical properties of the COF material have been compared with two analogue amorphous frameworks with similar chemical composition, which points out the important role of the enhanced crystallinity and porosity of the COF network in its superior performance as an electrocatalyst towards ORR.