Ti-MOF-derived titanium oxycarbonitride for high-durability oxygen reduction reaction catalysts

Titanium oxycarbonitride (TiO_xC_yN_z) was synthesized using a metal-organic framework (MOF), MIL-125-NH₂, as a precursor. TiO_xC_yN_z was prepared through the carbonization of the MOF and optimized as a supporting material with a high surface area and uniform structure. The MOF synthesis process was tailored by adjusting the metal-to-ligand ratio and solvent composition to enhance particle size and structural uniformity. TiO_xC_yN_z was thermally treated at 1000°C, resulting in a stable structure with a high nitrogen and carbon composition, thereby enhancing metal-support interactions and improving electron transfer capabilities. Uniformly loaded Pt nanoparticles on TiO_xC_yN_z exhibited 2.3 times higher mass activity for the oxygen reduction reaction compared to commercial Pt/C, along with exceptional durability under long-term accelerated degradation tests. This study demonstrates the potential of TiO_xC_yN_z as a high-performance catalyst support for fuel cells and sustainable energy system.