Influence of Polymer Coating on the Electrode Properties of Fe₃O₄/Carbon Nano-fiber Composite in Alkaline Electrolyte

Abstract

A composite of nano-Fe 3 O 4 and carbon nanofiber (CNF), which has been investigated to maximize iron utilization, is adversely affected by shortcomings such as hydrogen evolution by-reactions, high overpotential, self-discharge, and capacity fade by cycles. Hydrogen evolution from the Fe 3 O 4 /CNF electrode can be inhibited by coating with a polymer such as poly(ethylene glycol). Although self-discharge is not high, even modified Fe 3 O 4 /CNF electrodes are hindered by overpotential and cycle degradation deriving from partial dissolution of divalent iron and its subsequent aggregation.