Carbon Black Research Articles

Performance Improvement of Indium Tin Oxide Electrochemical Sensor by Mixing Carbon Black

Performance Improvement of Indium Tin Oxide Electrochemical Sensor by Mixing Carbon Black

Effects of Nanofillers and Synergistic Action of Carbon Black/Nanoclay Hybrid Fillers in Chlorobutyl Rubber

Nanocomposites based on chlorobutyl rubber (CIIR) have been made using a variety of nanofillers such as carbon black (CB), nanoclay (NC), graphene oxide (GO), and carbon black/nanoclay hybrid filler systems. The hybrid combinations of CB/nanoclay are being employed in the research to examine the additive impacts on the final characteristics of nanocomposites. Atomic force microscopy (AFM), together with resistivity values and mechanical property measurements, have been used to characterise the structural composition of CIIR-based nanocomposites. AFM results indicate that the addition of nanoclay into CIIR increased the surface roughness of the material, which made the material more adhesive. The study found a significant decrease in resistivity in CIIR–nanoclay-based composites and hybrid compositions with nanoclay and CB. The higher resistivity in CB composites, compared to CB/nanoclay, suggests that nanoclay enhances the conductive network of carbon black. However, GO-incorporated composites failed to create conductive networks, which this may have been due to the agglomeration. The study also found that the modulus values at 100%, 200%, and 300% elongation are the highest for clay and CB/clay systems. The findings show that nanocomposites, particularly clay and clay/CB hybrid nanocomposites, may produce polymer nanocomposites with high electrical conductivity. Mechanical properties correlated well with the reinforcement provided by nanoclay. Hybrid nanocomposites with clay/CB had increased mechanical properties because of their enhanced compatibility and higher filler–rubber interaction. Nano-dispersed clay helps prevent fracture growth and enhances mechanical properties even more so than CB.

Long-Term Organic Cultivation in Greenhouses Enhances Vegetable Yield and Soil Carbon Accumulation through the Promotion of Soil Aggregation

The long-term use of fertilizers and pesticides in conventional cultivation has resulted in a decrease in soil productivity and vegetable yields in greenhouses. However, there is little research exploring the changes in soil organic carbon and the microbial community mediated by soil aggregates, or their impacts on soil productivity. This study investigated the properties of soil aggregates, including the levels of organic carbon fractions, microbial community, and enzyme activity with the three aggregate classes: microaggregates (<0.25 mm), small macroaggregates (2–0.25 mm) and large macroaggregates (>2 mm) under conventional cultivation (CC), integrated cultivation (IC), and organic cultivation (OC) in greenhouses. The results showed that (1) OC and IC promoted the formation of small macroaggregates and enhanced aggregate stability compared to CC; (2) SOC in the three size fractions of OC increased by 92.06–98.99% compared to CC; EOC increased by 98.47–117.59%; POC increased by 138.59–208.70%; MBC increased by 104.71–230.61%; and DOC increased by 21.93–40.90%, respectively; (3) organic cultivation significantly increased enzyme activity in all three particle-size aggregates and increased the relative abundance of bacteria in microaggregates as well as the relative abundance of fungi in small macroaggregates. Structural equation model (SEM) analysis revealed that organic farming practices fostered the development of smaller macroaggregates, elevated microbial and enzyme activities within soil aggregates, and facilitated the conversion of soil nutrients and carbon sequestration. Therefore, long-term organic cultivation increases soil carbon content and vegetable yield in greenhouses by increasing the proportion of small aggregates. In conclusion, long-term organic cultivation in greenhouses improves soil structure, increase soil fertility and vegetable yield, and has a positive impact on the environment. Organic cultivation increases soil fertility and contributes to maintaining ecological balance and protecting the environment in greenhouses.

A novel approach to assessing the antioxidant and anti-diabetic potential of synthesized calcium carbonate nanoparticles using various extracts of Ailanthus altissima.

Calcium carbonate nanoparticles (CaCO3) have been found to exhibit unique properties that show their potential to be used in various therapies. Green synthesis of CaCO3 has been progressively gaining ac-ceptance due to its cost-effectiveness and energy-efficient nature. In the current study, different extracts of Ailanthus altissima were used to synthesize the calcium carbonate nanoparticles the synthesis and characterization of CCNPs were confirmed by using Fourier Transform Infra-Red spectroscopy, UV-Vis spectroscopy, and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The antioxidant activities (hydrogen peroxide, phosphomolydbenum, and ferric reducing) of calcium carbonate nanoparticles were affirmed by a good range of percentages of inhibition against free radical scavenging. The antidebate assays of CCNPs were observed by in-vitro and in silico approaches in a range at various concentrations while maximum inhibition occurred. In conclusion, the current study depicted that conjugated CaCO3 with A. altissima has a good potential to cure oxidative stress and Type II diabetes and could be used in the future as biogenic nanomedicine for the treatment of other metabolic diseases.

Application of Carbon Nanoparticles in Transoral Endoscopic Thyroidectomy Vestibular Approach for Unilateral Papillary Thyroid Cancer.

Transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA) is newly applied technology. Carbon nanoparticles (CNs) are novel lymph node tracers that have been widely used in China to help remove central lymph nodes (CLNs) and protect the parathyroid glands (PGs) in open thyroid cancer surgery. This study is to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of CNs in TOETVA. A total of 158 patients who underwent TOETVA with unilateral papillary thyroid carcinoma were enrolled in this study from March 2019 to February 2022. The participants were divided into a CNs group (n=88) and a control group (n=70), based on whether they received a intraoperative injection of CNs or not. Meanwhile, the CNs group were additionally divided into 2 subgroups, leakage subgroup (n=26) and standard subgroup (n=62). The 2 groups and subgroups were compared in terms of patient characteristics, perioperative clinical results, and postoperative outcomes. All common metrics had no significant differences were found between the CNs group and the control group ( P >0.05). The standard subgroup of CNs group had advantage over the control group on PGs identification (59/62 vs. 59/70 for superior PG, 56/62 vs. 52/70 for inferior PG, P <0.05). Moreover, the standard subgroup harvested more CLNs than the control group (8.97±2.96 vs. 7.47±2.93, P <0.05). More operation time was spent on the leakage subgroup of CNs group than the control group (160.00±17.61 vs. 140.00±13.32, P <0.05). Meanwhile, the leakage subgroup had disadvantage on intraoperative hemorrhage (26.15±10.80 vs. 21.21±7.09, P <0.05) and hospital durations (4.96±0.72 vs. 4.57±0.69, P <0.05). Furthermore, the leakage group identified fewer inferior PG than the control group (7/26 vs. 52/70, P <0.05). Contrary to the standard subgroup, the CLNs of the leakage subgroup was also unsatisfactory compared with the control group (4.96±1.84 vs. 7.47±2.93, P <0.05). The application of CNs suspension tracing technology has a definite effect in TOETVA. It can improve the thoroughness of lymph node dissection in the central region and enhance recognition of the PG. However, refined extracapsular anatomy is indispensable to prevent CN leakage. Leaked CNs will also be counterproductive to the operation.

Electrochemical Determination of Catechol Using a Disposable Printed Electrode with Conductive Ink Based on Graphite and Carbon Black

Catechol (CT) is a phenolic compound widely used in various industrial sectors, but it is toxic; thus, there is a need for methods that aim to identify and quantify the existence of residues of this material in the environment. In this study a disposable printed electrochemical sensor was developed as an effective alternative for determining CT in water samples. The electrode, called SPEC, was manufactured using the screen-printing method using polyethylene terephthalate (PET) as a support, in which a conductive ink based on carbonaceous materials was used to print the working and auxiliary electrodes and a silver/silver chloride of ink on the reference electrode. The optimal ratio for the conductive ink was 6.25% carbon black, 35.42% graphite, and 58.33% nail polish. The ink obtained was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The assessment of the effect of pH on the redox process showed Nernstian behavior (0.057 V pH−1), indicating that the process involves the same number of protons and electrons. Under optimized conditions, with 0.2 mol L−1 acetate buffer at pH 5.0, and by square wave voltammetry, the sensor presented sensitivity values of 0.31 μA L μmol−1, a detection limit of 5.96 μmol L−1, and a quantification limit of 19.87 μmol L−1. The sensor was applied to determine CT in tap water samples, and the results showed recoveries between 97.95 and 100.17%.

Electrical curing of carbon fibre composites with conductive epoxy resins

Direct electric cure (DEC) was used to cure carbon fibre-reinforced polymers (CFRPs). We show that the energy consumption for curing is significantly reduced, with the judicious placement of contact electrodes, by almost twelve-fold, compared to autoclave curing, and threefold compared to oven curing (0.84, 10.0, and 2.64 kW). CFRP samples of an epoxy matrix with 0-3 wt% carbon black (CB) was used to increase matrix conductivity, and the effect of this variation on the curing and mechanical properties was determined. Subsequently, the concentration with the highest flexural strength, a CFRP with 2 wt% CB was prepared, to study the effects of four different contact arrangements (Top-Bottom, Outside-Outside, Outside-Inside, Inside-Inside) under high pressure (about 2 MPa). Top-Bottom mode shows the best performance, here the electrical current flows through the ply stack perpendicular to the fibre direction. This CFRP has similar mechanical properties as samples manufactured by a range of traditional curing methods. Although the degree of cure (DOC) was reduced by 3–7 %, dependent on the placement of the electrical contacts, the through ply cures showed uniform and high degrees of cure. We show that DEC, thus provides a low capital investment solution to high-quality composite manufacture, facilitating market access for small enterprises, as part sizes and curing times are not limited by oven size nor oven thermal mass.

Efficient adsorptive removal of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) using biomass derived magnetic activated carbon nanocomposite in synthetic and simulated agricultural runoff water

This study focused on evaluating the efficacy of a magnetic activated carbon material (CPAC@Fe3O4) derived from pods of copper pod tree in adsorbing the toxic herbicide, 2,4- (2,4-D) from aqueous solutions. The synthesized CPAC@Fe3O4 adsorbent, underwent various characterization techniques. FESEM images indicated a rough surface, incorporating iron oxide nanoparticles, while EDS analysis confirmed the presence of elements like Fe, O, and C. Notably, the CPAC@Fe3O4 exhibited high surface area (749.10 m2/g) and pore volume (0.5351 cm³/g), confirming its mesoporous nature. XRD investigations identified distinct signals associated with graphitic carbon and magnetite nanoparticles, while VSM analysis verified its magnetic properties with a high magnetic saturation value (2.72 emu/g). The adsorption process was exothermic, with a decrease in adsorption capacity at higher temperatures. Freundlich isotherm provided the best fit for the adsorption, and the pseudo-second-order equation effectively described the kinetics. Remarkably, the maximum adsorption capacity ranged from 246.43 to 261.03 mg/g, surpassing previously reported values. The ΔH° value (−8.67 kJ/mol) suggested a physisorption mechanism, and the negative ΔG° values established the spontaneous nature. Furthermore, the synthesized adsorbent demonstrated exceptional reusability, allowing for up to five cycles of adsorption-desorption operations. When applied to simulated agricultural runoff, CPAC@Fe3O4 showcased a significant adsorption capacity of 160.71 mg/g for 50 mg/L 2,4-D, using a 0.2 g/L dosage at pH 2. This study showcased the transformation of copper pod biomass into a valuable magnetic nanoadsorbent capable of efficiently eliminating the noxious 2,4-D pollutant from aqueous environments.

The change of physical properties of calcium carbonate nanomaterials cured soil in road substrates

The utilization of appropriate materials to enhance road subgrade’s physical characteristics is crucial for current transportation construction and maintenance. This study proposes a curing method that employs calcium carbonate nanomaterials to address the problem of soil displacement and settlement in roadway subgrades. A method was developed during the study to explore the optimal curing material ratio. Additionally, this study developed a method for testing and analyzing the mechanical properties of soils cured with nanomaterials, including measures of tensile stress, triaxial shear stress, and Moore’s damage envelope. The study demonstrated that the unconfined compressive strength of the soil treated with calcium carbonate nanomaterials was 0.40 MPa after 7 days of curing with a 6% doping of the curing agent. Increasing the doping to 18% resulted in a breaking load of the soil reaching 0.100 kN. Furthermore, the triaxial shear stress–strain curve of the soil exhibited a slope of 264.47 during the linear phase when the curing agent was dosed at 6%. The slope of the linear phase of the stress–strain curve for triaxial shear at 6% curing agent doping was found to be 264.47. The cured soil molar pack line exhibited an internal friction angle of 22.66 degrees at the same curing agent dosage. The displacement analysis of the replacement roadbed with cured soil revealed a maximum observed displacement of only 377 mm after filling the embankment using the study method. The experimental results provide support for the hypothesis of the study, which suggests that the application of calcium carbonate nanoparticles can significantly enhance the physical characteristics of road subgrade.

Different Cr(VI)-sequestration behaviors between carbon nanoparticles and their agglomerates

Aggregation of carbon nanoparticles (CNPs) exerts significant influence on its surrounding environment. To comprehensively evaluate their environmental impacts, it is essential to clarify the relationship between CNP monomers, agglomerates, and their sorption and photocatalysis behaviors. In this work, three agglomerates were prepared by crosslinking one-dimensional oxidized carbon nanotubes (OCNTs), quasi one-dimensional oxidized graphene ribbons (OGRs), and two-dimensional graphene oxide sheets (GOs) with polyacrylamide hydrochloride (PA). Notably, the sorption and photo-reduction behaviors of Cr(VI) are different on the surfaces of CNPs monomers and agglomerates. Overall, all the agglomerates demonstrated higher Cr(VI)-sequestration capacities than the corresponding monomers regardless of dark environment and light irradiation. For CNPs monomers, chromium species were scarcely adsorbed on the particle surface in the dark; the sunlight illumination promoted significantly the transformation of Cr(VI) ions to solid Cr(OH)3, resulting in sequestration capacities of 16.7, 47.7, and 115.4 mg/g in OCNTs, OGRs and GOs, respectively. After crosslinked by PA, the total sequestration capacity of Cr(VI) pollutants in the agglomerates increased by 3.4 ∼ 21.4 times compared to their corresponding monomers. It was noteworthy that the agglomerates almost converted all of Cr(VI) to Cr2O3 under the illumination. This study highlights the discrepancies in Cr(VI)-sequestration behavior between CNPs and their agglomerates, which provides a novel insight into environmental impacts of CNPs and their agglomerates in nature.

Facile production of graphene-based ternary composite coatings on metallic bipolar plates

Graphene-based composite coatings can be applied on metallic bipolar plates (BPs) of PEMFC for corrosion protection and electron conduction, benefited from the high electrical conductivity, chemical stability and physical barrier properties of graphene. To reach the high electrical conductivity requirement, the composite coatings shall have high graphene content, which brings challenges including dispersion, processability and interface compatibility. In this work, polyisocyanate was grafted on graphene surfaces to enhance the compatibility with polyurethane (PU). Carbon black was introduced as conductive bridging, which filled in defects of graphene/PU coatings. The corrosion current density of the ternary composite coatings with 60 % functionalized graphene, 30 % PU and 10 % carbon black was 0.43 μA·cm−2 in H2SO4 solution of pH 3 at 80 °C, while the interfacial contact resistance was 6.75 mΩ·cm2 and the in-plane conductivity was 137.4 S·cm−1. The composite coatings provided an efficient and cost-effective solution for up-scaling production of metallic BPs.

Evaluation of electric field in polymeric electrodes geometries for liquid biosensing applications using COMSOL multiphysics

This work investigates the electrical field distribution in polymeric electrodes, materials composed of polymers and nanoparticles that leverage the physicochemical interactions between constituents to modify mechanical and electrical properties. Polymeric matrices often incorporate carbon nanoparticles to impart specific conductive properties while simultaneously enhancing mechanical stability through a protective polymer layer. The morphology, dielectric properties, and geometric configuration of these materials influence the electric field distribution, which is critical to their functionality. Utilizing finite element modeling, this study not yet explored aims to predict these effects and guide the design of material compositions and structural geometries to optimize functionalities like catalytic activity, adhesion enhancement, and interface energy reduction. Simulations were conducted using COMSOL 6.0 across eight similar geometric configurations, assessing polarization, and electric potential distribution. Results underscore the importance of surface polarization in controlling roughness and optimizing biosensor performance for liquid samples. Notably, controlled surface roughness induces asymmetric electric field distortions at biosensor edges, influencing dipole moments in polarizable nanoparticles. Each tested geometry demonstrated unique characteristics pertinent to its application in 3D-printed biosensors, influenced by surface roughness and wettability. Additionally, modifications in the electrical double layer due to controlled roughness alter charge distributions at the electrode-electrolyte interface, affecting electric field configurations.

Effect of lignin on the structure-property behavior of metal-coordinated and chemically crosslinked ethylene-propylene-diene-monomer composites

The efficient development and utilization of green biomass-based macromolecule engineering materials are essential for the sustainable development of human civilization. In this study, lignin-based ethylene-propylene-diene-monomer (EPDM) composites with excellent mechanical performance were fabricated using a simple method. The effects of water-insoluble enzymatically hydrolyzed lignin (EL) and alkali lignin (KL) on the mechanical performance of the composites were investigated separately. The results showed that the tensile strength of EPDM reinforced with KL and EL increased to 24.5 MPa and 22.1 MPa, respectively, surpassing that of the carbon black (CB)-reinforced EPDM. After 72 h of thermo-oxidative aging, the retention rates of the tensile strength and elongation at break in the lignin-reinforced EPDM were much better than those formed with pure CB, indicating that lignin significantly improved the thermo-oxidative aging resistance of the composites. In summary, the Zn2+ coordination bonds formed between the interface of EPDM and lignin in lignin/CB/EPDM ternary composites effectively improved the mechanical performance and aging resistance of the composites. This study has significant implications for enhancing the utilization of lignin and green functional polymer materials.

Analysis of carbon nano particle variant as the propellant fuel to increase specific impulses of rockets

Background This study compares propellant fuels’ specific thrust and impulse parameters using nanocarbon variant fuels from coconut shells and coal. Specific impulses and impulses are essential parameters that determine rocket performance. The specific thrust and impulses are influenced by fuel type, material composition, heat flow, and burning time parameters. The characteristics of nanocarbon as a fuel are proven to have high-value features and a long combustion time. This parameter is essential to add value to specific thrusts and impulses. Methods The method to prove the quality of solid fuel material was done experimentally. The composition of the propellant fuel variant mixed with Ammonium Perchlorate (NH4ClO4) as an oxidizer through the printing process and sample testing was carried out using scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), combustion time, and specific impulse tests. Results Test results with the composition of CBK2 (Coconut Shell + NH4ClO4 + Binder + Al = 15: 70: 10: 5) produced a specific impulse of 267 seconds or an increase of 37 seconds without carbon. CBB2 (Coal + NH4ClO4 + Binder + Al = 15: 70: 10: 5) produced a specific impulse of 261 seconds or an increase of 31 seconds. Conclusions The composition of nanocarbon as a solid fuel propellant has been proven to increase a rocket’s thrust and specific impulses. After all the material variants have been tested for thrust and specific impulse, the best rocket propellant is CBK2.

Graphitic carbon nitride film deposited with nitrogen-doped carbon nanoparticles as electrode for high-performance supercapacitors

Graphitic carbon nitride film deposited with nitrogen-doped carbon nanoparticles as electrode for high-performance supercapacitors

Study on the Evolution of Physicochemical Properties of Carbon Black at Different Regeneration Stages of Diesel Particulate Filters Regenerated by Non-Thermal Plasma

As a new type of aftertreatment technology, non-thermal plasma (NTP) can effectively decompose the particulate matter (PM) deposited in diesel particulate filters (DPFs). In this paper, a regeneration test of a DPF loaded with carbon black was carried out using an NTP injection system, and the changes of oxidative activity, elemental content, and occurrence state, microstructure and graphitization degree of carbon black were analyzed to reveal the evolution of the physicochemical properties of carbon black at different regeneration stages of the DPF regenerated by NTP. As the regeneration stage of the DPF advanced, Ti, Tmax, and Te of the carbon black at the bottom of the DPF decreased, which were higher than those at the regeneration interface. After the NTP reaction, the proportion of C element decreased to less than 80%, while the proportion of O element increased to more than 20%; C-O was converted to C=O and the relative content of C=O increased. The average microcrystalline length and average spacing decreased, while the average microcrystalline curvature increased. The ID1/IG (relative peak intensities) of carbon black samples decreased from 3.31 to 3.10, and the R3 (relative peak intensities, R3 = ID3/(IG + ID2 + ID3)) increased from 0.41 to 0.58. The content of carbon clusters had a great influence on the disorder of the microcrystalline structure, so the graphitization degree of carbon black decreased and the oxidation activity increased.

Enhanced hydrogen peroxide electrosynthesis and prolonged lifespan by preparing gas diffusion electrode via electrodeposition of CB on Ni foam

In-situ hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production is pivotal for the effective implementation of the electro-Fenton reaction. However, challenges such as low H2O2 yields and a short electrode lifespan have hindered its application. This study introduced a novel gas diffusion electrode (GDE), the CB(E)-Ni foam(GDE), fabricated through a combination of carbon black (CB) electrodeposition and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) impregnation techniques. Comprehensive physicochemical characterizations and electrochemical evaluations indicated that CB was more uniformly dispersed across the Ni foam, enhancing its electrochemical activity. When employed as a cathode, the CB(E)-Ni foam(GDE) demonstrated superior two-electron oxygen reduction reaction (2e− ORR) capabilities, marked by increased oxygen utilization and reduced energy demands, achieving a remarkable H2O2 concentration of 897.73 mg/L after 120 min. This performance significantly outpaces that of traditional GDEs. The unique structure of the CB(E)-Ni foam(GDE) not only prolonged electrode life by preventing rapid deactivation but also boosted H2O2 production and oxygen efficiency by 31.78% and 31.79%, respectively, when compared to a standard non-GDE configuration. In practical applications, the CB(E)-Ni foam(GDE) demonstrated utility by facilitating an 84.1% degradation rate of fulvic acid over 120 min within a homogeneous electro-Fenton system, highlighting its potential for environmental remediation.

Effective electrochemical detection of furazolidone based on iron tungstate decorated carbon black composite modified glassy carbon electrode

Furazolidone (FUZ), an antibiotic drug widely used to treat bacterial and protozoal infections, poses significant risks to human health and domestic animals. Therefore, detecting FUZ is crucial to prevent environmental contamination. In this study, Iron Tungstate (FeWO4) nanosheets were synthesized using the hydrothermal technique and anchored with Carbon black (CB) to form a FeWO4/CB nanocomposite. This composite was applied onto a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) for electrochemical FUZ detection. Material characterization involved various techniques such as field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), high resolution-transmission electron microscope (HR-TEM), energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDS), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Additionally, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), cyclic voltammetry studies (CV), and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) were conducted to assess the electrochemical behavior of the FeWO4/CB/GCE electrodes. The FeWO4/CB electrode demonstrated a low detection limit of 0.01 μM, a wide linear response range of 0.01–135 µM, and a higher sensitivity of 1.3 μA μM−1 cm−2. Moreover, the electrodes exhibited excellent repeatability, reproducibility, and stability. Practical application of the FeWO4/CB/GCE electrodes included the successful detection of FUZ in tap water and river water samples with a high recovery percentage. Additionally, these electrodes were utilized in the field of biotechnological applications for practical FUZ detection.

Fabrication of β-cyclodextrin decorated Vulcan XC-72R carbon nanoparticles for electrochemical sensing analysis of methyl parathion

ABSTRACT In this work, we prepared a sensing platform by utilising the nanocomposite of Vulcan XC-72 R carbon nanoparticles and β-cyclodextrin (β-CD/VXC-72 R) to decorate glassy carbon electrode for detecting MP sensitively. For the β-CD/VXC-72 R composite, VXC-72 R possesses high electroactive area and exceptional electrical conductivity, which is conducive to the generation of interwoven carbon conductive structures. β-CD can effectually facilitate the homogeneous dispersion of VXC-72 R and also enhance the accumulate of MP at the sensing interface. Furthermore, the presence of VXC-72 R compensates for the inherent inferior conductivity of β-CD. The collaborative interaction of VXC-72 R and β-CD enabled the prepared sensor to obtain excellent MP detection properties with a low limit of detection (LOD) of 6.7 nM in MP concentration range of 0.1–10 μM. In addition, the β-CD/VXC-72 R modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) displayed satisfactory repeatability and reproducibility.

Hydrogen peroxide electrosynthesis using commercial carbon blacks as catalysts: the influence of surface properties and adsorption performance

AbstractBACKGROUNDSurface properties and adsorption performance of carbon materials play a crucial role in the electrochemical two‐electron oxygen reduction to produce H2O2. However, there is still a lack of in‐depth research on commercial carbon blacks in this area. Herein, four typical commercial carbon blacks (Acetylene black (AB), Ketjen black EC 600JD, Vulcan XC 72 and Black Pearls 2000) were used as cathode catalysts to generate H2O2. Surface chemistry and pore structure of electrodes of the four carbon blacks were systematically characterized, and their effects on H2O2 adsorption, electrochemical generation and degradation were investigated.RESULTSAmong the four carbon blacks, AB has the highest content of C–O–C/COOH and CO, which are active groups catalyzing the two‐electron oxygen reduction reaction to generate H2O2. AB has the lowest level of defects and highest degree of graphitization, and AB‐modified graphite felt electrode (AB‐Ele) has the largest average pore diameter, smallest specific surface area and smaller charge transfer resistance. H2O2 production using AB‐Ele is the largest and reaches 567.7 mg L−1 at 180 min under a current density of 5 mA cm−2, and only decreases by 17.6% after 10 repeated uses.CONCLUSIONOverall, rich oxygen‐containing functional groups such as C–O–C, COOH and CO, high degree of graphitization, suitable surface area and porosity as well as weak H2O2 adsorption performance are beneficial for the two‐electron oxygen reduction reaction to generate H2O2. AB‐modified graphite felt electrode exhibits good catalytic activity and reusability in H2O2 electrosynthesis, demonstrating promising application prospects. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).