A comprehensive comparison of oxygen and nitrogen functionalities in carbon and their implications for the oxygen reduction reaction

•Changes in catalyst’s surface and their effects on ORR were evaluated.•O- and N-binding motives to tailor the ORR activity, selectivity and stability against corrosion.•N-doping/O-doping increases the stability of carbon materials for catalytic applications.•Carbon loss occurs at lower rates for N-carbon catalyst in comparison to the O-carbon and Vulcan carbon.•Oxidation of N-groups and enrichment with O-groups worsen ORR activity and generate H2O2.