A simple way to fine tune the redox potentials of cobalt ions encapsulated in nitrogen doped graphene molecular catalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction.

Co2+ ions encapsulated in nitrogen doped graphene were applied as an oxygen evolution catalyst. Their redox potentials were tuned using different counter anions as liable ligands, and the redox potential related catalytic rates were explored. It was proposed that the electron density of Co2+ ions was a general descriptor for activity.