Carbon nanotube electrodes for hot-wire electrochemistry

The use and preparation of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) at thin metallic wire electrodes for hot-wire electrochemical studies is described. The nanotubes were deposited on metal substrates such as gold by electrophoresis from a dispersion containing sodium dodecyl sulphate as an anionic surfactant. The formation of a layer of pure SWCNTs is achieved by thermal treatment at 350 degrees C. When heated in situ by a strong ac current, the electrodes can be used for electrochemical studies of nanotubes at increased temperatures. The state and functionality of the electrodes were characterized by Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and cyclic voltammetry with both anionic and cationic redox systems (dopamine, ferrocene carboxylic acid). First time experiments at the heated SWCNT electrodes demonstrated an excellent suitability of these as-prepared electrodes for thermoelectrochemical studies.