Electrocatalysis at graphite and carbon nanotube modified electrodes: edge-plane sites and tube ends are the reactive sites.
Carbon, and particularly graphite in its various forms, is an attractive electrode material. Two areas of particular interest are modified carbon electrodes and carbon nanotube electrodes. In this article we focus on the relationship between surface structure and electrochemical and chemical reactivity of electrodes based on these materials. We overview recent work in this area which has led us to believe that much of the catalytic activity, electron transfer and chemical reactivity of graphitic carbon electrodes is at surface defect sites, and in particular edge-plane-like defect sites. We also question the claimed special "catalytic" properties of carbon nanotube modified electrodes.
Banks
Craig E
CE
Physical and Theoretical Chemistry Laboratory, Oxford University, South Parks Road, Oxford, UKOX1 3QZ.
Davies
Trevor J
TJ
Wildgoose
Gregory G
GG
Compton
Richard G
RG
D002384:Catalysis; D004563:Electrochemistry; D004566:Electrodes; D006108:Graphite / Q000737:chemistry*; D006863:Hydrogen-Ion Concentration; D015394:Molecular Structure; D037742:Nanotubes, Carbon / Q000737:chemistry*; D010316:Particle Size; D013499:Surface Properties
D037742:Nanotubes, Carbon; D006108:Graphite