Co@MWNTs-Plastic: A novel electrode for NaBH4 oxidation

• MP substrate was fabricated by adhering MWNTs on a piece of obsoleted plastic bag.
• Co nano-thorns were prepared by a simple electrodeposition method on the MP surface.
• MP owns a superior stability in strong alkaline environment.
• CMP exhibits a high catalytic activity for NaBH4 electrooxidation.
• The possible mechanisms of NaBH4 electrooxidation on CMP was discussed.

A novel multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs)-Plastic (MP) substrate was first fabricated by adhering MWNTs on a piece of obsoleted plastic bag, and Co nano-thorns were subsequently prepared by a simple electrodeposition method on the MP surface. The morphology and phase structure of the as-prepared Co@MWNTs-Plastic (CMP) catalytic electrode are characterized by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and X-ray diffractometer. The catalytic activity of the CMP electrode for NaBH4 electrooxidation is investigated by means of cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry. The employing of waste plastic bags reduces white pollution and the MP substrate exhibits superior stability in alkaline solution. The 3D CMP catalytic electrode owns a high electrochemical activity for NaBH4 oxidation. Moreover, we discussed the possible mechanisms of NaBH4 electrooxidation on the CMP.