Development and characterization of a novel carbon fiber based cathode for semi-fuel cell applications

Fabrication of a microfibre carbon electrode (MCE) using a textile science flocking technique is described. Carbon fibers, 0.5 mm long and 10 μm in diameter are aligned perpendicular to the surface of a conductive carbon epoxy coated carbon paper substrate in a high voltage (typically 70 kV) field. SEM images are used to confirm high carbon fiber density and associated high volumetric surface area. Coverage of the carbon fiber surface with stable Pd–Ir clusters is shown. Performance of the MCE in a magnesium–hydrogen peroxide semi-fuel cell (SFC) under optimum conditions and at reduced concentration of H2O2 is reported upon.