Functionalization of carbon fiber electrode by high temperature oxidation and its electrocatalytic behaviors

Abstract

Here, a new functionalized carbon fiber electrode (CFE) was prepared by high-temperature oxidation method. The surface structure and properties of the heat-treated CFEs were characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM), IR spectroscopy and electrochemical method. The results showed that a porous structure was formed on the surface of carbon fiber by the heat-treatment, which contributed to the increased surface area and positive charge of CFE. In addition, the exposure of a fresh carbon surface made the CFE show the improved electrochemical activity. Therefore, the functionalized CFE is favorable for the access of negatively charged electroactive molecule to the fresh CFE surface and the subsequent electron-transfer reaction between electroacitive species and CFE. The proposed method for functionalizing CFE surface is simple, convenient and cost-saving.