The Electrochemistry of Black Carbons

Abstract

“Modifications” of carbon—as long as they predominantly have the layered graphite structure—exhibit the following properties: (1) electrical conductance, (2) the ability to accomodate ions or molecules between the layers of the lattice, and (3) the ability to react via functional groups at their surfaces (largely at the layer edges). The first of these properties has led to carbon being used as an “inert” electrode material; this aspect will not be considered in this article. The combination of the first and second properties leads to the possibility of electrochemical intercalation. This aspect of black carbon's properties will be described, using both literature data and our own results, in terms of both the basic information and the methodology associated with its uses. In addition to the formation of graphite salts the origin of graphite oxide and the various methods which have been used to analyze these materials will be reviewed. The functional groups [(cf. 3) above] can also be reacted electrochemically. Here, particular emphasis will be placed on detailed results obtained from chemically modified carbon electrodes and also from surface oxides and fluorides. Reference will be made to the technological uses of surface oxidized carbon fibers in composite materials and also generally to possible future uses of graphite based compounds.