Zhu, Y.Ran, J.Qiao, S.2018-03-222018-03-222017ACS applied materials & interfaces, 2017; 9(48):41980-419871944-82441944-8252http://hdl.handle.net/2440/111213Developing efficient electrocatalysts consisting of earth-abundant elements for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is crucial for energy devices and technologies. Herein, we report self-supported highly porous nitrogen-doped graphene foam synthesized through the electrochemical expansion of carbon-fiber paper and subsequent nitrogen plasma treatment. A thorough characterization, such as electron microscopy and synchrotron-based near-edge X-ray absorption fine structure, indicates the well-developed porous structures featuring homogeneously doped nitrogen heteroatoms. These merits ensure enriched active sites, an enlarged active surface area, and improved mass/electron transport within the continuous graphene framework, thus leading to an outstanding capability toward electrocatalyzing OER in alkaline media, even competitive with the state-of-the-art noble-/transition-metal and nonmetal electrocatalysts reported to date, from the perspectives of the sharp onset potential, a small Tafel slope, and remarkable durability. Furthermore, a rechargeable Zn-air battery with this self-supported electrocatalyst directly used as the air cathode renders a low charge/discharge overpotential and considerable life span. The finding herein suggests that a rational methodology to synthesize graphene-based materials can significantly enhance the oxygen electrocatalysis, thereby promoting the overall performance of the energy-related system.enCopyright © 2017 American Chemical Societychemical dopingelectrocatalysiselectrochemical expansiongrapheneself-supportingJournal article003007951810.1021/acsami.7b138360004176693000372-s2.0-85037730600388046Ran, J. [0009-0009-1588-6215]Qiao, S. [0000-0002-1220-1761] [0000-0002-4568-8422]