Electrochemical reduction of a wide variety of aromatic diazonium salts on carbon electrodes (glassy carbon, highly oriented pyrolytic graphite) leads to the covalent attachment of the corresponding aromatic radicals The films thus deposited on glassy carbon surfaces require mechanical abrasion to be removed Cyclic voltammetry, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, polarization modulation IR reflection absorption spectroscopy, Auger spectroscopy, and Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy allow the characterization of the overlayer and an estimate of the surface coverage The latter can be controlled through diazonium concentration and electrolysis duration The mechanism of derivatization is discussed on the basis of the kinetic data obtained from cyclic voltammetry and preparative electrolysis This versatile method of surface modification may find applications in the field of carbon−epoxy composites as attested by the successful binding of grafted p-aminophenyl groups with epichlorhydrin

Covalent Modification of Carbon Surfaces by Aryl Radicals Generated from the Electrochemical Reduction of Diazonium Salts

Carbon nanofibers (sometimes known as carbon filaments) can be produced in a relative large scale by the catalytic decomposition of certain hydrocarbons on small metal particles. The diameter of the nanofibers is governed by that of the catalyst particles responsible for their growth. By careful manipulation of various parameters it is possible to generate carbon nanofibers in assorted conformations and at the same time also control the degree of their crystalline order. This paper is a review of the recent advances made in the development of these nanostructures, with emphasis both on the fundamental aspects surrounding the growth of the material and a discussion of the key factors which enable one to control their chemical and physical properties. Attention is also given to some of the possible applications of the nanostructures which center around the unique blend of properties exhibited by the material.

A review of catalytically grown carbon nanofibers

R. Weiss

Papers

Chemical interactions between the carbon fibre surface and epoxy resins

Effect of surface treatment and sizing of c-fibres on the mechanical properties of cfr thermosetting and thermoplastic polymers