Synergistic Fe–Si Dual‐Site Pathway Engineering in Biomass‐Derived Carbon Matrix for High‐Performance Oxygen Reduction Reaction

ABSTRACT Anion exchange membrane fuel cells (AEMFCs) offer a sustainable energy solution with non‐precious metal catalysts, reduced degradation, and fuel flexibility. However, the sluggish oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) at the cathode and durability concerns impede commercialization. To address these challenges, this study presents a dual‐atomic SiFe–N–C catalyst derived from pinecones, a naturally abundant biomass resource. The catalyst features a nitrogen‐rich porous carbon matrix that stabilizes Si–Fe dual‐atomic sites during pyrolysis. Advanced analyses confirm Fe–Si and Fe–N bonds, which synergistically enhance ORR activity by optimizing electronic structures and intermediate adsorption energies. The SiFe–N–C catalyst surpasses Pt/C and Fe–N–C single‐atom benchmarks with superior ORR activity and excellent long‐term durability supported by high resistance to CO poisoning as well as…