Double graphitic-N doping for enhanced catalytic oxidation activity of carbocatalysts

Graphitic N (GrN) doping is an effective way to promote the catalytic oxidation activities of pristine graphene, but a low doping density still limits its practical use. Based on DFT calculations, a double graphitic N (GrN) doping method is proposed. When the two GrN atoms are located at two different but nearby hexatomic rings, the dissociation of O2 molecules is significantly facilitated and the subsequently formed oxygen groups remain active for SO2 oxidation. In contrast, if the two GrN atoms are located at the same hexatomic rings of graphene, sluggish carbonyl groups will be formed in spite of the dissociation of O2 molecules being extraordinarily preferred.