N-doped graphene for electrocatalytic O(2) and CO(2) reduction

The electrocatalytic CO(2) reduction reaction (CO(2)RR) and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) are important approaches to realize energy conversion and sustainable development. However, sluggish reaction kinetics severely hinders the practical application of devices related to these reactions. N-doped graphene (NG) with unique properties exhibits great potential in catalyzing the CO(2)RR and ORR, which is attributed to the electron redistribution. In this review, we start from the fundamental properties of NG, especially emphasizing the changes caused by N doping. Then the synthetic methods are summarized by classifying them into top-down strategies and bottom-up strategies. Subsequently, the applications of NG in the ORR and CO(2)RR are discussed and the effects of electronic structure on the electrocatalytic activity are highlighted. Finally, we give our own perspective on the future research direction of NG in the applications of the ORR and CO(2)RR.