One-step hydrothermal method for preparation of Ni/carbon thin film electrodes for efficient electroreduction of imidacloprid

Abstract

Carbon thin film (CTF)-modified electrodes were successfully prepared on Ni substrates via a one-step hydrothermal method. The properties of the films were investigated by X-ray diffraction patterns, scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Specific surface area and porosity were calculated from the N₂ adsorption desorption isotherms. Electroactivity was assessed by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The CTF prepared at 180 °C showed coarse morphology with a large number of carbon spheres (Φ1–4 μm) on the surface with a surface area of 76.77 m² g⁻¹ and good electroactivity with low charge transfer resistance. The CTF-modified Ni substrate was used as an electrode for the electroreduction of imidacloprid, achieving a 92.1% removal efficiency for the electroreduction of imidacloprid.