X-ray photoelectron spectroscopic studies of carbon-fibre surfaces. Part 4.—The effect of electrochemical treatment in nitric acid

Abstract

Carbon fibres, electrochemically treated using nitric acid, have been analysed using X.p.s., F.t.i.r. and s.e.m. Substantial quantities of surface oxide (mainly carbonyl-type oxides) could be produced leading to large topographical changes on the fibre surfaces. The nature of the surface oxide depended upon the potential, the reaction time in solution and the electrolyte concentration. No nitrogen-containing species were found on the surface.